(a) whether any Central assistance has not been provided to the Rural Development
Agency of Palmer Division during the year 1996-97, 1997-98 despite the condition of
severe drought prevailing in Kalahandi;
(b) if so, whether both the districts Palamer and Gadava of Bihar have been affected
by the drought this year as well;
(c) if so, whether the Government propose to provide some additional Central
assistance to combat the drought situation; and
(d) if so, the details thereof?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE(SHRI SHRIPAD Y. NAIK)
(a): It is primarily the responsibility of the State Government to undertake releif
measures in the wake of natural calamities. The Government of India supplements the
efforts of the State Government. Central share of Calamity Relief Fund (CRF) for 1996-
97 and 1997-98 amounting to Rs.38.97 crore and Rs. 41.12 crore respectively was
released to Bihar for undertaking necessary relief measures in the wake of natural
calamities including drought. For Orissa, Central share of CRF amounting to Rs.36.76
crore and Rs.38.79 crore during 1996-97 and 1997-98 was released. In addition,
Rs.50.00 crore during 1996-97 and Rs.4.00 crore during 1997-98 was released to
Orissa from National Fund for Calamity Relief in the wake of drought.
(b): No report has been received from the State Government in this regard.
(c)&(d): Do not arise.