The Maharashtra government has declared a drought in **265 out of 358 talukas**, affecting approximately **74% of the state**, due to a significant rainfall deficit.
265
Drought-Hit Talukas
⏳ Time Machine
How today’s news fits into the bigger picture
1972
Maharashtra Famine Spurs Employment Guarantee Scheme
A severe drought led to widespread famine in Maharashtra, prompting the state to launch the pioneering Employment Guarantee Scheme (EGS) to provide rural employment and mitigate distress.
2009
Widespread Drought Affects Kharif Crops
Maharashtra, along with several other Indian states, experienced a significant drought, impacting Kharif crop production and necessitating central government relief packages for affected farmers.
2012-2013
Consecutive Drought Years
Maharashtra faced two consecutive years of severe drought, leading to acute water shortages and agricultural distress, which highlighted the need for robust water management policies and infrastructure.
2018-2019
Major Drought Declaration in 151 Talukas
The state declared a drought in 151 talukas, covering a significant portion of its area, and implemented comprehensive relief measures including loan waivers and water supply augmentation.
Early September 2026
Rainfall Deficit Becomes Apparent
Initial assessments indicated a severe monsoon rainfall deficit across large parts of Maharashtra, prompting fears of a widespread drought and calls for government intervention.
Today
Maharashtra declared a drought in 265 talukas, covering about 74% of the state, due to a severe rainfall deficit, and announced relief measures.
What happens next?
The state government will focus on implementing relief measures, including water supply management and agricultural support, with potential central government aid over the next 3-6 months, especially for the upcoming Rabi crop season.
Maharashtra has officially declared a drought in **265 of its 358 talukas**, which translates to about **74% of the state**, following a severe rainfall deficit this monsoon season. The state government announced a series of relief measures to support affected farmers and communities. These include the restructuring of crop loans, concessions on land revenue, and ensuring uninterrupted power supply for agricultural pumps. The move comes as farmers face significant crop losses and water scarcity, particularly impacting Kharif crops. This declaration triggers the implementation of various relief schemes aimed at mitigating the economic hardship and ensuring basic amenities like drinking water are available across the affected regions. The government aims to alleviate immediate distress and support agricultural recovery.
💭 If you're wondering…
Kharif crops, also known as monsoon crops, are cultivated and harvested in India during the monsoon season (June to October), including rice, maize, and cotton.
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