Maha drought: Pawar to address meet of NCP ministers

"There is a severe drought in the state and the state government has declared 123 (of the total 353) talukas of Maharashtra as drought-affected. The situation in the state would be discussed at the meeting, to be held here on January 15.

"Not only farmers but also the common citizens in several districts are without drinking water," state NCP spokesperson Nawab Malik said.

The meeting would dwell on "concrete" programmes to be undertaken by the party and also the government to combat the drought, he said.

Meanwhile, the state government is taking several measures including seeking central assistance and requesting neighbouring state Karnataka to release water, to tackle the acute water shortage in several parts of the state.

It has also launched several programmes, including animal camps and drinking water supply through tankers, to help the people deal with the water scarcity.

Pawar had last week said a Central team had suggested financial assistance of Rs 778 crore to Maharashtra for water and related programmes.

He had also assured the state of further increasing the aid after the group of ministers' meeting.