Question : DROUGHT RELIEF



(a) the details of all the drought relief packages allocated to Maharashtra during the last three years and the manner in which the quantum of package was utilised/being utilised by the State;

(b) whether the Union Government has issued some directions to the State Government in this regard and sought the district-wise details of the allocation;

(c) if so, the details thereof; and

(d) the details of the assistance provided/being provided by the Union Government to the families of farmers who committed suicide in the State owing to drought?

Answer given by the minister



MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND FOOD PROCESSING INDUSTRIES (SHRI TARIQ ANWAR)

(a) to (c): Government of India has approved financial assistance from National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) for drought relief in Maharashtra as detailed below.

 (Rs. in Crore)
Year	Kharif	Rabi	Total
2010-11	-	-	-
2011-12	574.71	-	574.71
2012-13	778.09	1036.98	1815.07
Besides Government of India had also approved a special package of Rs. 400 crore during 2012-13 under National Horticulture Mission (NHM) for rejuvenation of orchards in the drought affected districts of the State in view of deficient rainfall situation in Marathwada and parts of Western and Central Maharashtra. This allocation has been enhanced by Rs.157.60 crore during 2013-14.

(d): National Disaster Relief Fund does not have any provision for assistance to families of farmers who commit suicide owing to drought.