Maharashtra orders CMRF cells in 265 drought-hit talukas

In a Nov 6, 2026 order, Maharashtra State Relief and Rehabilitation Department directed a Chief Minister's Relief Fund (CMRF) cell in every Panchayat Samiti office in the 265 talukas declared drought-hit after Trigger-1 was activated in the 2026 Kharif season.

Cells will first guide patients to existing options, including Ayushman Bharat, Mahatma Jyotirao Phule Jan Arogya Yojana, Labour Department health welfare schemes and benefits available through charitable hospitals. Patients who are not eligible for regular government schemes can apply online through affiliated hospitals for direct financial assistance under CMRF.

Taluka- and district-level health committees will meet at least twice a month. They will arrange check-up camps, mobile medical units and specialist doctors, and coordinate action on heat-related and waterborne diseases. Women, children, senior citizens and people with chronic illnesses such as diabetes and hypertension will get special attention.