India, Sept. 25 -- Maharashtra is facing drought-like conditions as the monsoon withdraws, with Marathwada and north Maharashtra reporting large rainfall deficits.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis visited drought-affected areas, including Latur, on September 22 and 23, and sought drought relief for farmers from the central government.

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar received only 29.8% of normal rainfall, while Nashik district recorded 34.3% of its normal average.

Kharif crops such as soybean, cotton, moong and urad are expected to suffer heavy losses, with eight tehsils in Solapur likely to report 80-90% crop losses.

Maharashtra is facing severe water stress as the monsoon begins to withdraw, with districts in Marathwada and north Maharash...