PUNE, Nov. 4 -- Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday assured drought-hit farmers in Maharashtra of all possible assistance from the Centre, saying the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government stood firmly with them during the natural calamities. Citing a recent World Bank report, Modi also highlighted India's progress in poverty reduction, saying around 500 million (50 crore) people had overcome extreme poverty over the past 10-12 years. Addressing a gathering virtually during the inauguration of Pune Metro's Hinjewadi-Shivajinagar Line 3, the PM said he was aware of the difficult situation faced by farmers in Maharashtra and urged them not to worry about the assistance they would receive. "I assure all farmers from Maharashtra that the NDA government has stood with you in these times of natural crisis. I am aware of the drought situation in Maharashtra. The state government has provided advance assistance, and our government has also deposited the PM-Kisan funds. So, do not worry. We are all with the farmers," Modi said. He also appealed to people across the country to extend support to farmers during the festival season. "I appeal to all citizens across India to extend assistance to farmers from across the country during this festival period," the PM said. The assurance comes against the backdrop of drought conditions affecting several parts of Maharashtra, with the state government announcing advance financial assistance to affected farmers ahead of Diwali. The state has approved an advance payment of Rs.5,000 to eligible farmers in drought-affected areas, intended to provide immediate relief while crop-loss assessments and other formalities are completed. The Centre's PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme provides eligible farmer families with annual financial assistance of Rs.6,000 in three instalments through direct benefit transfer. Modi referred to the scheme as part of the government's efforts to help farmers tide over the crisis. Turning to poverty reduction, Modi said India's approach to tackling poverty had changed, with the focus shifting from promises to tangible outcomes. "Earlier, the fight against poverty was limited to slogans. Today, India is defeating poverty on the ground," he said. Citing a recent World Bank report, the PM said, "Around 50 crore people have overcome extreme poverty in India in the last 10-12 years." Modi said the country's economic growth and poverty reduction were interconnected, with increasing investments in infrastructure and welfare schemes improving people's lives and creating employment opportunities....