Maharashtra's Relief and Rehabilitation department has initiated an on-the-spot assessment for crops affected by unseasonal rains and hailstorms across approximately 11 districts. The assessment covers a variety of crops including mangoes, oranges, and bananas, spanning 50,000 hectares in regions such as Nagpur, Amravati, Akola, Yavatmal, Washim (Vidarbha region), and Parbhani, Beed, Nanded, Latur, Dharashiv, Hingoli (Marathwada region). The meteorological department forecasts additional unseasonal rains and hailstorms, heightening concerns for agricultural sectors.

The state's Agriculture Minister, Dhananjay Munde, has directed district administrations to expedite the assessment process and formulate reports for governmental financial assistance. Despite restrictions imposed by the model code of conduct due to Lok Sabha elections, the government commits to providing necessary relief to affected farmers. This commitment comes amidst criticism from opposition parties, including Shiv Sena UBT, NCP SP, and Congress, regarding the government's handling of the situation.

Chief Minister Eknath Shinde assures that the government will offer essential support to the impacted farmers. Specific damage reports include severe impacts on rabi crops and fruits over 40,000 hectares in Amravati district, with additional damages in Akola and Buldhana.

A survey revealed that 113 farmers from Hingna administrative division suffered crop loss ranging from oranges and sweet lime to vegetables. The affected crops spanned more than 80.4 hectares.

Similarly, 30 farmers from eight villages in Umred administrative division suffered losses with vegetables on 15 hectares hit.

Source - https://www.freshplaza.com