28 April,2026 09:26 PM IST | Thane | mid-day online correspondent
Maharashtra Deputy CM Eknath Shinde. File Pic
Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has unveiled an integrated village development model aimed at transforming rural Maharashtra through a coordinated approach to agriculture, water conservation, and public health, the PTI reported.
Chairing a Kharif season review meeting at the Thane district collectorate on Monday, Shinde directed the administration to set a target of making 100 lakes in the district silt-free.
According to PTI, he emphasised the effective implementation of the "Galmukt Dharan, Galyukt Shivar" (silt-free dams, silted farms) scheme to boost water storage capacity and soil fertility, according to an official release.
"The objective is to increase water storage by deepening and widening dams, allowing for the cultivation of vegetables and cash crops even in summer. We must leverage the support of social organisations like the Naam Foundation, Jaltara Foundation, and CSR funds from bodies like MCHI to provide the necessary machinery for desilting works," he said.
Shinde also urged the agriculture department to promote toxin-free farming by reducing the use of chemical fertilisers in favour of organic and natural methods.
In view of the El Nino impact and a projected 92 per cent rainfall, Shinde issued instructions for strict water planning.
He announced an HPV vaccination campaign for women under the "My Village, Arogya Sampan Gaon" initiative.
Additionally, Shinde highlighted a landmark decision to regularise rural houses up to 1,500 square feet, with a complete fee waiver for houses up to 500 square feet.
"This integrated approach coordinates agriculture, water, health, and housing to accelerate rural progress," he added, the news agency reported.
Last week, the Maharashtra government stepped up preparedness measures to tackle a possible impact of El Nino, with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis directing departments to prioritise water management, conservation works and coordinated planning ahead of the monsoon season.
Chairing a high-level review meeting, Fadnavis emphasised the need for proactive measures to mitigate the potential effects of erratic rainfall.
He called for better planning of available water resources, faster execution of conservation projects and immediate repair and rejuvenation of existing water bodies.
Officials were instructed to ensure strong coordination between departments to respond effectively to emerging challenges.
According to the India Meteorological Department, the impact of El Nino is expected to peak during August and September, with forecasts indicating below-normal rainfall during the monsoon season.
(With PTI inputs)
