New Delhi (Agency): An official report reveals that 685 farmers have committed suicide in Maharashtra’s Marathwada region this year, with the highest number of deaths reported in Beed, the home district of State Agriculture Minister Dhananjay Munde.
A troubling report has emerged from Maharashtra’s Marathwada region, stating that as many as 685 farmers have taken their own lives between January 1 and August 31, 2023. The situation is particularly concerning in Beed district, which is the home area of State Agriculture Minister Dhananjay Munde. The district has reported the highest number of farmer suicides in the region, at 186.
The Marathwada region is made up of eight districts: Aurangabad, Jalna, Beed, Parbhani, Nanded, Osmanabad, Hingoli, and Latur. Of the total suicides, 294 occurred during the monsoon months from June to August alone. Adding to the grim scenario, the region is facing a rainfall deficit of 20.7 percent. As of September 11, Marathwada has received 455.4 mm of rain compared to an average of 574.4 mm.
After Beed district, Osmanabad follows with 113 farmer suicides, then Nanded with 110, Aurangabad with 95, Parbhani with 58, Latur with 51, Jalna with 50, and Hingoli with 22. These statistics were revealed in a report from the Divisional Commissioner’s office.
Beed district holds particular importance as it is the home of Dhananjay Munde, a rebel NCP leader who joined the Eknath Shinde-led government on July 2. He was appointed as the Agriculture Minister about two weeks after his inclusion in the cabinet.
The high number of farmer suicides is an alarming concern that raises questions about the effectiveness of government policies and support systems in place for the agricultural sector. The statistics also point to the need for immediate interventions to address the hardships faced by farmers, especially given the climate challenges.
Farmers in Marathwada are grappling not only with insufficient rainfall but also with various other hardships that make their lives extremely challenging. These issues necessitate urgent attention from both the state and national governments to prevent further loss of life and to ensure the welfare of the farming community.
The alarming rate of farmer suicides serves as a wake-up call for all stakeholders, compelling them to take immediate actions to provide better support systems, mental health resources, and financial aid to the farmers to prevent any more tragedies.