Sowing of important kharif crops down, adds to uncertainty
Lower acreage in kharif crops like paddy and pulses has driven up prices of rice, tur and urad sharply over the past month. The higher prices in most of these food items are here to stay, say experts.
Sirsa and Fatehabad districts figure in the new scheme for crop diversification being implemented by the Agriculture Department by promoting the summer moong, maize and sunflower crops in 13 districts of Haryana.
Fourteen districts in Assam that are reeling under an unprecedented dry spell have been declared affected by drought-like conditions by the Assam government even as all seven states in the Northeast are badly hit by deficient rainfall so far. Already another state from the region, Manipur had been declared drought-hit by the Centre.
Kullu: Over 50 per cent crops have been damaged in four tehsils in the district due to drought. The administration has initiated assessment and relief operations.
Chandigarh: The area under premium quality paddy, particularly Pusa 1121 variety, will increase in the state from 3.5 lakh hectares last year to 7 lakh hectares this year.
Governor Syed Sibtey Razi today directed deputy commissioners of the drought-hit districts of Palamau, Chatra, Garhwa and Latehar to initiate action for cultivation of altern- ate crops.
He said farmers ought to be given seeds and other necessary amenities. Besides, their crop insurance premium amounts should also be borne by the state.
