An Empowered Group of Ministers (EGoM) on drought, headed by Agriculture Minister Sharad Pawar, on Wednesday approved . 511-crore assistance for Rajasthan, Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh – the states affected by floods and droughts in 2012. Further, an additional grant of . 256 crore was given to Maharashtra for rejuvenation of orchards.

However, the high-level committee didn’t take a decision on extending the duty-free import of oil cakes for next six months, which is vital for steady availability and stable prices of fodder. The finance ministry is expected to assess the demand and supply situation of oil cakes in the country.