Mumbai: Senior leader Sharad Pawar has written to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis seeking immediate assistance amid drought-like conditions in the state and the difficulties faced by farmers. Pawar drew the government’s attention to crop damage, water shortages, fodder availability and financial assistance for farmers.
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Sept 17,2026 - Time 10.30Hrs
Responding to Pawar’s letter, Chief Minister Fadnavis said the government was taking the situation seriously. “Sharad Pawar is a senior leader. He has made suggestions, and we will certainly listen to them,” Fadnavis said. He clarified that the letter would not be treated as a political matter and that the government had begun making the necessary preparations to assist farmers.
Based on the damage assessments to be conducted after October 5, the state will seek assistance from the Centre under the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) norms. However, Fadnavis said preparations were also under way to provide assistance to farmers from the state government’s funds without waiting for central aid. He said the availability of drinking water and fodder, as needed, would also be ensured.
Fadnavis also criticised Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s position. He claimed that even within the Congress there was no confidence in Gandhi’s leadership and alleged that other issues were being raised to divert attention from the party’s defeat.
