Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis expands drought-hit talukas to 305, announces ₹5,000 Diwali bonus for farmers

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced the expansion of the drought declaration to 305 talukas. A Diwali bonus of ₹5,000 will be deposited into farmers' accounts to alleviate financial distress. The government is also monitoring drinking water supply and combating severe water scarcity with GPS-tracked tankers. Fadnavis praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his contributions to infrastructure and welfare projects in Maharashtra.