Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis addressed concerns regarding the proposed farm loan waiver and the potential impact of El Niño on the state's agriculture during a press conference. He confirmed that the waiver announcement will occur before June 30, 2023, and emphasized that it will not be affected by the Model Code of Conduct for the Legislative Council elections, as the beneficiaries are not voters. Fadnavis highlighted projections from the India Meteorological Department (IMD), indicating that Maharashtra is expected to receive only 88% of normal rainfall this year, particularly affecting regions like western Vidarbha, Marathwada, and parts of north Maharashtra. He warned that rainfall distribution may vary significantly within districts and that the gaps between rain spells could increase. To combat these challenges, each district has been instructed to devise special plans. Additionally, Fadnavis urged nationalised banks to meet crop credit disbursal targets, aiming for at least 80% compliance, and stated that they will not require CIBIL scores for crop loan approvals. He expressed confidence in managing any potential defaulters despite anticipated challenges.