The Economic Times

Raj Thackeray's MNS cancels Dipotsav in Mumbai over drought, urges restraint during Diwali

Maharashtra Navnirman Sena chief Raj Thackeray announced the cancellation of Dipotsav this year to address the severe drought. He urged the citizens to celebrate Diwali mindfully in light of the challenges faced by farmers. The state government declared 85 percent of Maharashtra drought-hit following inadequate rainfall. An interim aid of Rs 5,000 has been announced for affected farmers before the festival.