In the backdrop of about two-third districts in the state not receiving sufficient rainfall, the state government today declared a drought-like situation in the region.

"Positive measures would be taken by the Government to provide relief to farmers as 16 districts have received less than half the normal rainfall," Minister for Rehabilitation Patangrao Kadam told reporters after the meeting in Mumbai.

The Government has decided not to collect land revenue forcibly from affected farmers, Kadam said, adding electric supply would be continued even if these farmers fail to pay the bill.

Nashik and Ahmednagar are worst affected districts, followed by Aurangabad, Pune, Nagpur and Amravati which have also received low rainfall.

Water level in irrigation projects in the state is only 21 per cent this year compared to 47 per cent in 2007.

Water has been provided through 1519 tankers to 1496 villages and 988 hamlets.

About 62,970 works have been made available under the Employment Guarantee Scheme. This will benefit 57 lakh poor people, Kadam said.

As per weather forecast model, based on a US weather website, rainfall is expected in the state after July 12, Kadam said.