Severe drought threatens decades of horticultural investments across Maharashtra

Fruit growers across Maharashtra face an unprecedented crisis as severe water shortages threaten years of agricultural investments. State officials declared 265 out of 358 talukas drought-affected following an 18.8% rainfall deficit. Farmers are struggling to keep perennial plantations like grapevines and orange trees alive. If these plants wither, growers will lose multiple years of income and face steep replanting costs. Current conditions echo the catastrophic 1972 dry spell. Today, farmers worry more about saving the actual trees and vines rather than just this season's harvest.

Vineyards and orchards face ruin

Nashik grape growers warn that vines have already started drying out. Maharashtra accounted for over 69% of India's grape production last year, making this a national concern. Growers invest roughly Rs 50,000 to Rs 60,000 per acre every season. Replacing dead vines requires waiting up to four years for new plants to yield commercial harvests. Orange orchards in Amravati also show severe distress, with farmers reportedly clearing 5,000 hectares of damaged trees. Mango, banana, and pomegranate farms face similar threats. In desperation, many farmers now spend up to Rs 3,000 daily to buy tanker water.

State leaders have announced land revenue concessions and paused agricultural loan recoveries. A central inter-ministerial team recently visited the affected districts to evaluate the need for National Disaster Response Fund relief. Meanwhile, agricultural associations demand urgent logistical support, including specialized water trains. Experts suggest 50% agricultural shade nets could help reduce heat exposure, though they cost up to Rs 1.38 lakh for a typical holding, pushing farmers deeper into debt.