(a) whether due to the drought situation in the country during the years 2002-03 the production
of foodgrains is estimated to be lowest in the last seven years; and
(b) the details of arrangements made by the Government?
(a) whether due to the drought situation in the country during the years 2002-03 the production
of foodgrains is estimated to be lowest in the last seven years; and
(b) the details of arrangements made by the Government?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI HUKUMDEO NARAYAN YADAV)
(a): During the last seven years (1995-96 to 2001-02), the lowest production of foodgrains at
180.42 million tonnes was recorded in 1995-96. The estimated production of foodgrains in 2002-03
is 183.17 million tonnes, which exceeds the foodgrains production in 1995-96.
(b): As the stock position of rice and wheat in the country is much above the buffer norm, there
is no crisis. However, in order to enable the farmers to achieve higher level of production and
productivity, a number of initiatives have been taken by the Government. Taking into account the
increase in input costs caused by drought in 2002-2003, the Government have announced onetime
Special Drought Relief Price varying from Rs.5 to Rs.20 per quintal for various crops, over and
above the Minimum Support Price. Other measures include promotion of watershed development,
development and promotion of new technology etc.