'Where there is Crisis, there is Shiv Sena': Shinde Pledges Aid to Drought-Hit Farmers
Maharashtra DCM Eknath Shinde pledges full support and compensation for drought-hit farmers ahead of Diwali, citing Shiv Sena's legacy.

In a significant move ahead of the Diwali festivities, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has assured compensation to drought-hit farmers, emphasizing that the state government and the Shiv Sena remain steadfast in their support for the agricultural community during this period of immense hardship.
Government Intervention and Immediate Relief
Speaking to the media in Thane, Eknath Shinde confirmed that the government has officially declared a drought in the affected villages. This declaration paves the way for the distribution of compensation to those whose livelihoods have been devastated by the lack of rainfall.
To ensure the aid reaches the grassroots level, Shinde revealed that multiple trucks carrying essential assistance are already being dispatched to the affected regions. He highlighted that party workers would be tasked with visiting the homes of farmers personally to provide the necessary support.
A Legacy of Support
Invoking the principles of the party's founders, Shinde stated, "Where there is a crisis, there is Shiv Sena." He noted that this philosophy, instilled by Balasaheb Thackeray and Anand Dighe, continues to drive the party's actions today.
The Deputy Chief Minister recalled that the Shiv Sena has a long history of providing large-scale assistance to lakhs of farmers specifically during the Diwali season, and the current initiative is a continuation of that tradition of service.
Central and State Synergy
Recognizing the scale of the crisis, Shinde called for a collective effort to support the farming community. He stressed that the farmers are not alone, as both the state and central governments are firmly committed to their welfare.
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi: Has provided assurances that the center will stand by the farmers of Maharashtra.
- Union Home Minister Amit Shah: Has reaffirmed the central government's firm support for the affected regions.
Political Friction: Naresh Mhaske Hits Back at Sanjay Raut
While the focus remained on farmer relief, the event also saw a sharp political turn. Shiv Sena MP Naresh Mhaske launched a scathing attack on Sanjay Raut, using a religious metaphor to criticize those he claims have abandoned their core principles.
Mhaske asserted that those who have forsaken their fundamental values and policies would eventually face the consequences. He specifically targeted Raut, suggesting that while Amit Shah is a prominent national figure and a key part of the BJP and NDA alliance, Raut has chosen to ignore the directives of the late Balasaheb Thackeray and instead align himself with Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi.