Union Home Minister Amit Shah has greenlit an advance release of Rs 1,950.80 crore as the second instalment of the central share of the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) for Karnataka and Maharashtra for the fiscal year 2025-26. This financial aid, announced on October 20, 2025, aims to provide immediate relief to communities battered by torrential rainfall and devastating floods during this year’s southwest monsoon.

The allocation breaks down as Rs 384.40 crore for Karnataka and a substantial Rs 1,566.40 crore for Maharashtra. These funds are intended to bolster the states’ efforts to deliver swift assistance to citizens grappling with the aftermath of extreme weather events, including widespread flooding that disrupted lives and livelihoods. The central government’s statement emphasized its unwavering commitment, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the guidance of Home Minister Shah, to support states hit by natural calamities such as floods, landslides, and cloudbursts.

This year alone, the Centre has demonstrated robust support for disaster-affected states, disbursing a staggering Rs 13,603.20 crore to 27 states under the SDRF. Additionally, Rs 2,189.28 crore has been released under the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) to 15 states, while Rs 4,571.30 crore from the State Disaster Mitigation Fund (SDMF) has been allocated to 21 states, and Rs 372.09 crore from the National Disaster Mitigation Fund (NDMF) to nine states. These funds underscore the government’s proactive approach to disaster management and mitigation across the country.

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Beyond financial aid, the central government has mobilized extensive logistical support to tackle the monsoon’s wrath. This year’s monsoon season saw an unprecedented deployment of 199 National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams across 30 states and Union Territories, conducting critical rescue and relief operations. The Indian Army and Air Force also played pivotal roles, providing essential support to states grappling with floods, landslides, and cloudbursts. These coordinated efforts ensured timely evacuations, medical aid, and supply distribution in affected areas.

The heavy rainfall during the 2025 southwest monsoon wreaked havoc in Karnataka and Maharashtra, submerging villages, damaging infrastructure, and displacing thousands. In Maharashtra, low-lying areas and urban centers alike faced severe waterlogging, while Karnataka reported significant agricultural losses. The approved funds will enable local authorities to address immediate needs, such as providing shelter, food, and medical care, while also supporting long-term recovery efforts like rebuilding infrastructure and restoring livelihoods.

The Centre’s swift response has been lauded as a critical step in alleviating the suffering of affected communities. However, with climate change intensifying extreme weather events, questions linger about the adequacy of current disaster preparedness and mitigation strategies. As Karnataka and Maharashtra begin deploying these funds, the focus will be on efficient utilization to ensure maximum relief reaches those in need. The government’s commitment to standing by disaster-hit states remains a beacon of hope amid challenging times, but the road to recovery for these flood-stricken regions is far from over.

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