Mumbai, 25 Sept 2025, ANN: Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Wednesday announced that the Maharashtra government will formulate a comprehensive long-term plan to make agriculture climate resilient, in light of mounting climate-related challenges and devastating losses suffered by farmers across at least 30 districts.

During his visit to flood-affected areas in Solapur and Latur, Fadnavis emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting farmers and ensuring swift compensation for crop losses. “We are adopting flexibility in panchanamas. Even drone images and mobile screenshots showing flooding in agricultural land will be accepted by the administration for compensation claims,” he said.

Acknowledging the severity of flash floods, particularly in the Marathwada region, the CM described the situation as “unprecedented” and said farmers must be better prepared to face such climate shocks. “We have to work towards addressing climate challenges in the agriculture sector,” he said.

Highlighting ongoing efforts, Fadnavis revealed that under the Nanaji Deshmukh Krishi Sanjivani Yojana, the World Bank has committed Rs 6,000 crore to support climate-resilient farming practices in Maharashtra.

He also stated that the Cabinet had approved Rs 2,215 crore on Tuesday to aid farmers affected by the floods. “The government will not only compensate for crop loss but also for damages to houses and essential amenities. Soil erosion is a serious concern and will be addressed as part of our long-term strategy,” he added.

Fadnavis directed district officials to avoid bureaucratic rigidity while conducting damage assessments and to respond proactively to the needs of farmers. “We have instructed the district administration not to be rigid during panchanamas. Flexibility must be shown to accommodate the concerns of the farming community,” he stressed.

Agriculture Minister Dattatray Bharane, who is also touring flood-hit districts, said that heavy rains and subsequent floods have caused extensive damage, affecting 63 lakh acres of crop land across 30 districts. “The process of conducting panchanamas is currently underway,” he confirmed.

Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar also visited affected regions in Western Maharashtra and Marathwada to review relief and rehabilitation efforts.
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