Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis Intervenes, Latur Farmer Receives New Bull and Financial Assistance Within Hours

Mumbai: In a heartening example of swift government intervention, a landless farmer from Latur district who was forced to harness his wife in place of a bull after one of his animals died in a lightning strike has received immediate relief. Following directions from Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, the farmer was provided with a replacement bull and financial compensation for the loss of his animal within a matter of hours.

The incident involved Kashinath Gaikwad, a landless farmer from Bombli Khurd village in Devani taluka of Latur district. Gaikwad and his wife, Hausabai Gaikwad, earn their livelihood by using their pair of bulls to undertake agricultural work for local farmers, including ploughing, sowing, and other farm operations.

However, tragedy struck when one of their bulls was killed by a lightning strike during a storm on June 5. With agricultural commitments pending and no alternative means available, Gaikwad was reportedly compelled to enlist his wife in place of the deceased bull to continue working in the fields.

When reports of the family's plight reached Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, he immediately instructed the Chief Minister’s Office to take urgent action. Under the guidance of Principal Secretary Dr. Shrikar Pardeshi, Latur District Collector Dr. Bharat Bastewad coordinated with the Revenue Department, Animal Husbandry Department, Agriculture Department, and other concerned agencies to provide immediate assistance.

Acting swiftly, the Animal Husbandry Department arranged for a replacement bull, which was formally handed over to the Gaikwad family in the presence of District Collector Dr. Bharat Bastewad, Tehsildar Somnath Wadkar, and departmental officials.

The timely support brought visible relief to the struggling family. Expressing gratitude, Hausabai Gaikwad and the couple’s son, Pundalik Gaikwad, thanked Chief Minister Fadnavis and the district administration for their prompt response.

“Our bull died after being struck by lightning, and we were left in a very difficult situation. We are grateful that our problem was recognized and help arrived so quickly. With the new bull, we can now complete the work we have taken up for the upcoming Kharif season without worry,” said Hausabai Gaikwad.

Compensation Approved Under State Disaster Relief Norms

Officials confirmed that in cases where livestock die due to natural disasters, financial assistance is provided through the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF). Following an immediate inspection and veterinary post-mortem, compensation for the deceased bull was sanctioned as per government norms.

The approved financial assistance is being directly transferred to Kashinath Gaikwad’s bank account, ensuring both immediate relief and support for the family’s agricultural livelihood.