Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced on Wednesday that the state has expanded its drought declaration to 305 talukas, up from the previously designated 265, and has approved a ₹5,000 Diwali bonus for farmers, which will be deposited directly into their bank accounts prior to the festival.
Speaking at a press conference in Mumbai, Fadnavis explained that the government decided to accelerate its relief efforts to support farmers suffering from severe crop damage and financial distress brought on by the drought.
