NEW DELHI, July 29: Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has said that both his Government and the Central Government are worried about the delayed monsoon and its impact on seasonal crops.

Gehlot said that State Government officials were assessing the drought situation in Rajasthan under his and the chief secretary’s direct supervision.

He said necessary arrangements are being made to counter the drought-like situation, and added that all help is being provided to the farmers. “We are hopeful of getting a good monsoon this season, as we had in the past two years,” Gehlot said.

He also said that instructions have been passed to the concerned department to prepare contingency plans for water, fodder for the animals and employment for people living in drought-hit areas.

He confirmed that he has briefed Union Minister for Rural Development and Environment Jairam Ramesh on the drought situation in Rajasthan over the phone, and requested him to give an additional 100 days of work to those workers who have already been working on 100 days work guarantee under MNREGA.

Gehlot said that in the past, the Rajasthan Government has arranged supply of water 20,000 drought-hit villages through water tankers and other means of transport.

“The delayed monsoon and its slow progression is affecting Kharif Crop sowing activities in the State, but we will give all assistance and help to the farmers to overcome the present situation,” Gehlot said.

Commenting on the effectiveness of the Chief Minister’s Free Distribution of Medicine scheme, Gehlot described it as a grand and popular success.

He said that the distribution of medicines for cattle would start from August 15.

“Cattle play a very vital role in the farming and livelihood of our society. This new scheme will also be popular and successful, especially for farmers in the state,” said Gehlot. (Agencies)