Ahead of the Kharif 2026 season, the Maharashtra government has announced a series of major relief measures aimed at strengthening the agriculture sector and supporting farmers across the state. After reviewing Kharif preparedness, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis shared important updates on crop loans, farm loan waivers, monsoon preparedness, water conservation and digital agriculture initiatives.
The government has made it clear that farmers will no longer face hurdles in getting crop loans due to low CIBIL scores. At the same time, preparations are underway to roll out the much-awaited farm loan waiver scheme in the coming weeks.
Chief Minister stated that all banks across Maharashtra have been instructed not to reject crop loan applications solely on the basis of poor CIBIL scores. He added that the Reserve Bank of India has also clarified that crop loans should not be linked to credit score conditions. The move is expected to provide timely financial support to farmers before sowing activities begin, ensuring that agricultural operations are not disrupted during the Kharif season.
During the review meeting, the government also discussed the implementation of the promised agricultural loan waiver scheme. According to the Chief Minister, cabinet-level discussions have already been completed and the scheme could be implemented before June 30 once data from all districts is compiled. The state government believes the initiative will provide significant financial relief to lakhs of farmers struggling with agricultural debt.
The state government has also expressed concern over the possibility of a weaker-than-normal monsoon this year. Maharashtra’s total Kharif crop area is estimated at nearly 152 lakh hectares, with soybean and cotton accounting for around 88 lakh hectares. Officials expect rainfall to remain around 88 percent of the seasonal average, while regions such as West Vidarbha, Marathwada and parts of North Maharashtra may witness prolonged dry spells and uneven rainfall distribution. Experts warn that such conditions could increase stress on standing crops during critical growth stages.
To tackle potential drought-like conditions, the government has directed authorities to accelerate work under the “Jalyukt Shivar Yojana” for rainwater harvesting and protective irrigation facilities. District administrations have also been asked to prepare contingency crop plans and ensure the availability of drought-tolerant seed varieties. The government confirmed that sufficient stocks of soybean, cotton, maize, paddy, tur and millet seeds are available, along with certified seeds for the upcoming season.
The Chief Minister warned fertilizer dealers against forcing farmers to purchase unwanted products along with essential fertilizers such as DAP or urea. He said farmers should not be compelled to buy additional products unnecessarily. The state has already taken strict action against violators, with more than 400 fertilizer dealer licenses either suspended or cancelled for violating government guidelines.
AI-Powered Smart Farming Initiatives Rolled Out:
Maharashtra has also launched several digital agriculture initiatives aimed at modernizing farming practices. Under the “Mahavistar 2.0” app, farmers will receive AI-powered information in local languages related to weather forecasts, crop advisory, pest management and market prices. In addition, the “CropSap” platform will allow farmers to upload crop photographs and receive instant guidance related to crop diseases, pest attacks and treatment recommendations.
Digital Crop Survey and QR Traceability System Introduced:
Government has also introduced a digital crop survey system that will enable farmers to upload crop-related data directly through mobile phones. Officials believe this will improve the accuracy and transparency of crop insurance and claim settlement processes. A QR code-based traceability system is also being implemented, allowing buyers to identify the village and farm where agricultural produce was grown. The initiative is expected to improve product credibility, transparency and market value for farmers across Maharashtra.
FAQs:
1. Will farmers get crop loans without CIBIL score in Maharashtra?
Yes, the Maharashtra government has instructed banks not to reject crop loans due to poor CIBIL scores.
2. When will the Maharashtra farm loan waiver scheme start?
The government may implement the farm loan waiver scheme before June 30, 2026.
3. Which crops are most important during Kharif 2026 in Maharashtra?
Soybean, cotton, maize, paddy, tur and millet are among the major Kharif crops in Maharashtra.
4. What is Mahavistar 2.0 app for farmers?
Mahavistar 2.0 is an AI-powered agriculture app providing weather updates, crop advisory and pest management information.
5. Why is Maharashtra concerned about the monsoon forecast?
The state expects below-normal rainfall and uneven monsoon distribution, which may impact crop growth and farm productivity.
