Mumbai: Maharashtra has recorded 2,635 farmer suicides in 2024, with Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar and Amravati divisions alone accounting for 2,021 deaths, according to Relief and Rehabilitation Minister Makarand Jadhav Patil. He revealed the alarming statistics in response to a written question in the State Council.
Rising Crisis in Marathwada and Vidarbha
Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar division reported 952 farmer suicides.
Amravati division recorded 1,069 suicides.
NCP (SP) president Sharad Pawar expressed deep concern over the issue and urged the Central government to implement a farmer support policy.
“The data from Marathwada and Vidarbha is disturbing. We will collect accurate figures from different locations and push for immediate policy intervention,” Pawar stated in Baramati.
Political Speculations & AI in Farming
On reports of NCP (SP) leader Jayant Patil switching to the Ajit Pawar-led NCP, Pawar said Patil had already clarified his stance.
Pawar also spoke about revolutionary AI-driven farming, stating that AI will soon enhance sugarcane cultivation in Maharashtra.
“Sugar factories are set to integrate AI for improved productivity. A major decision on this will be taken soon,” he added.
Law and Order Concerns in Beed
Addressing the recent murder of sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh, Pawar said Beed was once a peaceful district, but political misuse of power had led to instability.
With farmer suicides rising and political uncertainties looming, the focus remains on urgent agricultural reforms and crisis intervention.
