Drought in Maharashtra: Government Steps Up Measures to Boost Employment and Curb Migration Amidst Crop Loss
Reports of crop damage are emerging from several areas in Maharashtra amidst drought conditions. The state government has announced new measures to boost employment in affected regions, curb migration, and ensure the safety of women and children.
On Monday, October 5, the government announced the formation of a task force to ensure the effective implementation of the Employment Guarantee Scheme. The objective is to provide employment to more laborers under the scheme and prevent the migration of drought-affected families.
Maharashtra's Women and Child Development Minister, Aditi Tatkare, expressed concern over the potential rise in child marriage cases during the drought. The state government has directed local administrations to conduct awareness campaigns and outreach programs in affected areas to reach women and families, particularly those migrating.
The Women and Child Development Department has issued instructions to ensure a regular supply of adequate water and food at Anganwadi centers. According to the government, children of families migrating due to the drought will be provided shelter in government hostels and child care homes.
Crop Damage in Vidarbha: Cotton and Paddy
Apart from Marathwada and Solapur, reports of crop damage have also come from several parts of Vidarbha. The cotton crop has been affected in the cotton-growing districts of Vidarbha. Farmers are demanding that the central government not extend the permission for duty-free cotton imports beyond October 31.
Farmers fear that cheap imported cotton could exert downward pressure on domestic prices. There are also reports of heavy damage to the paddy crop in Vidarbha's Bhandara district. Paddy accounts for approximately 90% of the crops grown in the district.
**Lower Water Storage Compared to Last Year**
As of October 5, water storage in Maharashtra stood at 74.29%, whereas on the same date last year, it was 89.22%. Marathwada and Vidarbha are among the most severely affected regions.
Farmers in the state are grappling with the impact of drought amidst low water storage and crop losses. The state government is taking measures to boost employment, curb migration, and provide assistance to affected families.
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