CM Devendra Fadnavis Directs Uninterrupted Food Grain Supply to 265 Drought-Affected Talukas in Maharashtra

Mumbai, October 10: The Maharashtra government has issued instructions to ensure uninterrupted and timely food grain distribution to eligible beneficiaries in 265 drought-affected talukas across the state. The measures follow directions from CM Devendra Fadnavis and aim to prevent shortages among farmers, agricultural labourers and other households affected by rainfall deficits during June to September 2026.

The Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Protection Department issued a Government Resolution on October 9, 2026, outlining measures to maintain food grain supplies and improve access to welfare schemes in the affected areas.

According to a government resolution issued by the Relief and Rehabilitation Department, a ‘Trigger-1’ drought alert was declared in 265 talukas for the 2026 Kharif season. The declaration led to the announcement of various concessions and measures for affected areas.

Under the National Food Security Act, 2013, eligible beneficiaries receive free food grains within the limits prescribed by the central government. The state has directed the relevant agencies to ensure that beneficiaries in the drought-affected talukas receive their entitled supplies regularly and without delays. Authorities have also been instructed to ensure that eligible beneficiaries continue receiving benefits under the APL DBT scheme.

The government has additionally provided for the inclusion of eligible individuals who are not currently covered under the National Food Security Scheme. Their eligibility will be assessed according to prescribed criteria, including income conditions and the availability of beneficiary limits. Eligible households may be included under the Antyodaya Anna Yojana or the Priority Household Beneficiary category.