Three districts declared drought-hit in MP

Bhopal, Nov 8 (UNI) Madhya Pradesh Revenue Minister Kamal Patel today informed the state assembly that Panna, Chhatarpur and Tikamgarh districts have been declared drought-affected and others would also be included under this category on the basis of the crop assessment report.

He was replying to a discussion on the situation arising out of either excessive or scanty rainfall in different parts.

Leader of the Opposition Jamuna Devi accused the government of turning a Nelson's eye on farmers and announced a walkout while demanding immediate relief for peasants. The entire opposition staged a walkout shouting anti-government slogans.

''An action plan has been drafted for tackling natural calamities and district collectors directed to complete crop assessment surveys by December. Certain collectors in Gwalior, Chambal and Sagar divisions have been told to complete surveys within 24 hours,'' Mr Patel explained.

Alleging that the Centre was yet to provide any finances under a Rs 749-crore relief proposal submitted by the state, he added that 171 persons and 2,052 animals perished across 35 districts due to inclement weather.

''The state government doled out compensation of Rs 38.84 crore,'' the minister added.

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