New Delhi, 27 September (H.S.): The Congress on Sunday questioned the Maharashtra government's policy of expanding the data-centre industry after the state declared 265 of its 358 talukas drought-affected, raising concerns over the use of water resources.

Congress media and publicity department head Pawan Khera asked how the state government planned to ensure that water resources were not diverted from farmers and ordinary citizens to support the expansion of data centres.

The Maharashtra government on Saturday declared 265 of the 358 talukas drought-affected, covering around 74 per cent of the state, following deficient rainfall and prolonged dry spells. The government also announced relief measures, including crop-loan restructuring, concessions in land revenue and other assistance for affected areas.

Khera said the drought declaration and the state's push to expand the data-centre industry raised questions about the availability and allocation of water resources.

He sought clarity on the government's plan to balance the requirements of new industrial infrastructure with the water needs of farmers and residents in drought-affected areas.

The Congress leader's remarks came amid the state government's efforts to promote Maharashtra as a destination for data-centre investments and other industries.

The state government has said drought relief measures will be implemented in the affected talukas, with crop-loss assessments and other mitigation measures to be undertaken by district authorities.

The Congress has questioned the government's priorities in the context of the drought declaration, while the state's drought response includes measures for agriculture, drinking water and rural employment.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Indrani Sarkar