Rahul Gandhi calls for full assistance to farmers in flood-affected Marathwada region

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. File pic

In the wake of unprecedented rains in the arid Marathwada region of Maharashtra, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Thursday appealed to the government to expedite relief work as well as assess crop damage and provide full assistance to farmers, reported news agency PTI.

In a post on X, the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha expressed grief over the situation, stating, "The news of loss of lives and extensive crop damage in Marathwada due to heavy rains is deeply distressing. My heartfelt condolences go out to all the affected families during this challenging time."

He called on the government and the local administration to act swiftly in delivering relief and conducting thorough assessments of the damage caused, particularly to farmland, PTI reported. Gandhi also appealed to Congress workers and leaders to collaborate with authorities and offer all possible assistance to those in need.

The recent downpours across Marathwada, a region comprising eight districts, have led to at least eight fatalities, submerged villages, damaged homes, and ruined crops across more than 30,000 hectares, according to officials.

Right time to waive farm loans, says Uddhav Thackeray after visiting flood-hit areas

Shiv Sena (UBT) President Uddhav Thackeray on Thursday said this was the right time to announce a loan waiver for farmers, as he visited flood-affected areas in the Marathwada region of Maharashtra.

Questioning the delay in relief, the former chief minister asked whether the BJP-led government was waiting for an "auspicious time" in the panchang (almanack) to help farmers.

Heavy rains and swollen rivers have caused large-scale damage in Marathwada since September 20, claiming at least nine lives. According to the state government, crops on more than 30,000 hectares have been destroyed in the floods.

Speaking at Itkur in the Dharashiv district, Thackeray said, "This is a severe calamity. Every time something like this happens, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis talks about the 'right time' to help farmers. When exactly is the right time? Are you going to consult a panchang?"

"This is the right time to waive farmers' loans, just like we did during my tenure," he added, referring to his time as chief minister from 2019 to 2022.

Thackeray also demanded that farmers in flood-hit areas be given compensation of Rs 50,000 per acre.

"Farmers are demanding Rs 50,000 per acre because the top layer of soil has been completely washed away. It will take them three to five years to make their land cultivable again," he explained.

He criticised the state government's Rs 2,215 crore relief package, saying it was insufficient and that individual farmers would receive barely Rs 8,500 from it. "A loan waiver is essential," the Shiv Sena (UBT) chief asserted.

Appealing to farmers not to take extreme steps, Thackeray said, "Do not lose hope, and do not take any drastic decision. These bad times will pass."

Earlier in the day, speaking in Latur, he reiterated that his party stands firmly with the farmers.

"Do not be disheartened, and do not take any wrong step," he urged.

(With PTI inputs)