(a) whether due to EI Nino effect, irregular rainfall and drought in the year 2010 is likely to occur;
(b) if so, the details of the likely effects on agricultural production; and
(c) the details of the preventive measures taken by the Government in this regard?
MINISTER OF THE STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND
MINISTER OF THE STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS,
FOOD AND PUBLIC (PROF. K.V. THOMAS)
(a) to (c): India Meteorological Department (IMD) have informed that while giving Long Range Forecast for
South-West Monsoon, 2010, the factor of El Nino effect had been taken into account. According to them, El
Nino conditions have vanished and weak La Nina condition emerged in mid June and it is likely to be well
developed during the remaining part of the season. With La Nina in offing in the Pacific Ocean, IMD
expects good rainfall activity during the remaining part of South-West Monsoon season.
Kharif sowing operations are still continuing. In view of deficit rainfall during
current monsoon, Bihar and Jharkhand have so far declared drought in 28 districts
and 12 districts, respectively.
It is primarily the responsibility of the State Governments concerned to take necessary measures in wake
of natural calamities including drought. For such purpose, the States have ready availability of funds
in their State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF). First instalment of Central share of SDRF for 2010-11 has
already been released to all the States.