Drought-hit Bihar to seek massive aid
By IANSThursday, August 5, 2010
PATNA - Drought-hit Bihar is likely to seek a special financial assistance of Rs.15,000 crore from the central government, an official said Thursday.
The Bihar government Tuesday declared 28 of the state’s 38 districts drought affected due to a 23 percent rainfall deficit.
Chief Minister Nitish Kumar will hand over a memorandum to the central government Aug 7 in New Delhi seeking financial help, said an official in the chief minister’s office.
It is estimated that the drought has affected hundreds of thousands for a second consecutive year.
The shortfall in rains has badly hit paddy sowing and transplantation in Gaya, Aurangabad, Jehanabad, Arwal, Nawada, Patna, Rohtas, Kaimur and Nalanda.
Over a dozen districts in Magadh and Patna divisions are worst hit. Last year, the government declared 26 districts drought-hit.
The monsoon usually hits the state June 12-14. While the rains have begun, they have been scanty.
