Severe drought impacts farmers in Maharashtra's Beed district
Severe drought impacts farmers in Maharashtra's Beed district
IN · Published Oct 22, 2026
• Maharashtra's Beed district is facing its worst drought in a decade, with a 37% monsoon rainfall deficit.
• Over two-thirds of the state has been declared drought-hit, affecting crops like cotton, soybean, and sugarcane.

Impact & Risks

The drought is severely affecting farmers, cattle breeders, sugar factory workers, and local markets in Beed and surrounding areas. Farmers are facing financial distress due to reduced crop yields and rising fodder costs, leading to decreased milk production and income. Sugar factories may shut down earlier than usual, leaving labourers without work. The crisis has also led to a rise in farmer suicides, with 153 cases reported in Beed this year alone. The lack of water and fodder is expected to worsen by January, further exacerbating the situation.

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