The Centre has formed a team to assess damage in the 265 talukas of Maharashtra where the state government has declared drought, after Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis sought NDRF assistance.

Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde met Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday to discuss the situation. Modi enquired about water and fodder availability and crop damage, and assured central support.

The state declared drought in 265 of its 358 talukas on September 26, nearly 74 per cent of the state, after a rainfall deficit damaged soybean and other crops. More than 20 of the state’s 36 districts recorded a rainfall deficit.

The government has ordered crop-loss panchanamas, halted coercive loan recoveries, and directed fodder and drinking-water supply. Surveys are ordered in 19 more talukas. A formal relief package will follow the assessments.

Soybean, the main cash crop, is the worst hit. Shiv Sena (UBT) warned the drought could last nine to ten months. The IMD has announced the monsoon’s withdrawal from most of the state.