Maharashtra has declared 304 of 358 tehsils drought-hit after an 18% monsoon deficit, with Beed district recording a 37% shortfall, the worst in a decade.
Whether you farm in Beed or buy groceries in Pune, traders warn of rising grain and milk prices as supply falls. Falling farm incomes also push migrant workers and cattle breeders toward towns in search of work.
Track the Maharashtra government's September promise of free cattle sheds in Beed to see if they open before more farmers sell their livestock.