Drought declared in 21 Andhra districts

However,drought is not declared in Srikakulam district keeping in view the model code of conduct in force due to a by-election there for Tekkali Assembly constituency.

With declaration of drought,farmers whose crops have been damaged by more than 50 per cent will be eligible for supply of inputs on subsidy wherever the crop is not insured and also for rescheduling of crop loans by banks. They will also be eligible for sanction of fresh crop loans,Rosaiah said.

The state Government has already initiated several relief measures to tackle the drought. A Contingent plan for Rs 417 crore has been prepared by the Agriculture Department for taking up alternative crops,red gram,and supply of inputs on subsidy. The Horticulture Department formulated contingent plan for Rs 142.51 crores . The Animal Husbandry Department has so far supplied 27,000 quintals of fodder seed for cultivation of fodder and cattle camps are being organised wherever necessary as part of contingent plan of Rs 350 crores.

Drinking water supplies are being augmented through transportation of drinking water,deepening of bore wells and hiring of private sources as per the action plans prepared by Panchayati Raj and Rural Development and Municipal Administration and Urban Development departments.

The Rural Development Department has initiated several steps under NREGS to provide wage employment to those seeking additional employment due to reduced farming activities.

The state will be submitting a memorandum on drought situation to the Centre for additional assistance. Rosaiah said all crop loans given up to the cut off date,principal plus interest will be converted to term loans repayable in five years,fresh crop loans will be issued,term loans for minor irrigation will be given as per bank assessment.