Amravati: As many as 21,219 farmers have died by suicide in Maharashtra’s Amravati revenue division over the past 24 years, an official report has revealed.

The deaths occurred between January 2001 and January 2025 across five districts—Amravati, Akola, Buldhana, Washim and Yavatmal. The report also recorded 80 farmer suicides in January this year alone.

Breakdown of suicides across districts

According to the data, Yavatmal district reported the highest number of farmer suicides, with 6,211 cases over the 24-year period. Amravati followed with 5,395 deaths, while Buldhana recorded 4,442 cases. Akola saw 3,123 suicides, and Washim reported 2,048.

In January 2025, Yavatmal once again accounted for the highest number of cases, with 34 suicides. Meanwhile, Amravati, Akola, and Buldhana each reported 10 cases, and Washim recorded seven.

Government compensation and pending cases

Of the total suicides, 9,970 cases were deemed eligible for government compensation, while 10,963 were considered ineligible. An additional 319 cases remain under review. The report stated that financial assistance has been provided in 9,740 cases.

Under current regulations, only farmer suicides directly linked to financial distress—such as unpaid loans and crop failures—qualify for compensation. Cases attributed to personal reasons do not meet eligibility criteria.

(With inputs from PTI)