The Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) has criticised the Maharashtra government over its decision to provide Rs 5,000 to drought-affected farmers and Rs 2,000 to Anganwadi workers ahead of Diwali, calling the assistance inadequate amid rising prices and widespread agricultural distress.

In an editorial published in the party's mouthpiece Saamana, the Uddhav Thackeray-led faction accused the Mahayuti government, headed by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, of presenting limited financial assistance as a major festive benefit when farmers were struggling with crop losses, mounting debts and water shortages.