Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (Maharashtra), Sep 17 (IANS) Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Thursday reiterated the state government’s resolve to permanently eradicate drought in the Marathwada region, announcing plans to divert 70 TMC of water from the Ulhas basin to the Godavari basin in phases over the next seven years.

He also assured that the government will take necessary measures to provide assistance to the farmers amid scanty rainfall in the Marathwada region.

Addressing a gathering on the occasion of Marathwada Mukti Sangram Day after the flag-hoisting ceremony at the Martyr’s Memorial, Fadnavis said, “Work is underway to divert 70 TMC of water from the Ulhas basin into the Godavari basin. While this generation has endured severe drought, we will ensure the next generation does not. We aim to transfer this water to the Godavari basin in phases over the next seven years.”

The chief minister reiterated the government’s initiatives regarding debt relief, water supply, and river-linking projects.

“About 30 TMC of additional water from the Krishna basin is being diverted to Marathwada following World Bank approval, with tenders currently being issued. Detailed Project Reports (DPR) for river-linking projects to lift water from the Konkan region to the deficit Godavari basin are in the final stages, utilising unique engineering designs,” Fadnavis said.

The Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar water supply project is in its final stages, which will soon ensure daily drinking water for the city, he said, adding that major investments are coming into Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, supported by upgrading infrastructure and the ongoing work on the Jalna Dry Port.

“Farmers are benefiting from the Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Holkar Debt Waiver Scheme, with remaining beneficiary lists to be released soon,” Fadnavis said.

Addressing the drought situation in Marathwada, the CM reassured the farming community that the government will extend relief and take due measures to tackle the situation.

“Marathwada faces constant struggle, particularly against recurring droughts. This year has again brought drought conditions. Although initial expectations for crops were positive, a long spell without rain severely damaged agricultural yield. I assure farmers that our government will not abandon you under any circumstances. We stand firmly behind you and will provide all necessary assistance,” he said.

He announced that crop damage assessments (panchanamas) will begin after October 5.

“While NDRF assistance will follow, the state government will ensure its aid reaches farmers beforehand. To prepare for potential drinking water and fodder shortages, fodder cultivation was initiated earlier under the Fodder Development Programme,” he stated.

The chief minister announced the cancellation of Rs 48,000 crore in outstanding agricultural electricity bills.

“We previously decided to provide free electricity to farmers, and now the state government has decided to waive their past dues of Rs 48,000 crore so they face no further hardship,” Fadnavis said.

The chief minister briefly recounted the history of the freedom struggle.

“Even after India’s Independence, Marathwada continued its struggle for freedom. Marathwada achieved liberation 13 months later, on September 17, 1948, when the Indian tricolor was finally unfurled. I salute all the freedom fighters who made the ultimate sacrifice, endured atrocities in prison, or protested through satyagraha. I pay my respectful homage to those who are no longer with us. Marathwada was liberated due to their sacrifices. Iron Man Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel mounted a massive effort, applying pressure from all four sides to free the region,” he said.

“Today, we celebrate the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram. However, during that era, ‘Vande Mataram’ was strictly banned. Speaking or teaching Marathi was prohibited, and atrocities reached extreme levels where people could not celebrate festivals. Freedom fighters pulled Marathwada out of these conditions,” the CM added.

Speaking at a parallel event in Beed, Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar highlighted the historical weight of the movement.

“Marathwada Liberation was the second freedom struggle for the rest of the country. Beed district served as the epicentre of this struggle. Swami Ramanand Teerth led the movement capably. For me, this history is personal, as my father, Bajirao Patil, actively participated in the liberation struggle,” she said.

Sunetra Pawar also extended birthday wishes to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

–IANS

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