In Maharashtra, a viral video has prompted a direct intervention from Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan. The footage shows a distressed farmer, Gaurav Pawar, desperately trying to salvage his rain-soaked peanut crop with his bare hands. This incident, recorded in a market in Washim district, has drawn national attention to the plight of farmers affected by erratic weather patterns.
Moved by the emotional scenes, Chouhan personally called Pawar to assure him that the government would take swift action to compensate for his losses. During the call, Chouhan expressed, "The video truly pained me," which he later shared on social media. He reassured Pawar, stating that the Maharashtra government is sensitive to farmers' issues. "I have spoken with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, the Agriculture Minister, and the local collector. You will receive compensation and assistance. We are with you," he added.
The minister assured Pawar that immediate steps would be taken to resolve his situation. Chouhan mentioned, "They will start working on this by Monday," reiterating that no farmer should be left helpless in such circumstances. During the call, Pawar noted that he fell ill after getting drenched while trying to save his crops. This video has become a symbol of the widespread crisis affecting many regions in Maharashtra, where unseasonal rain and hail have damaged standing crops.
Parts of the state, including Washim, have been experiencing severe weather in recent days, threatening the livelihoods of thousands of farmers. The Indian Meteorological Department has also issued warnings for more rain in the coming days, raising further concerns. Chouhan's prompt response has been widely appreciated and is seen as a crucial sign of reassurance during a time when farmers are facing increasing losses.