Question : INVASION OF LOCUSTS IN J& K



(a) Whether all the three regions of Jammu and Kashmir was devastated by invasion of locusts ;

(b) If so, the details thereof; and

(c) The assistance sought and funds released to the State?

Answer given by the minister


MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI KANTI LAL BHURIA)

(a) to (c): Migratory locust infestation in the Zanskar area of Kargil was spread over an area of about 3000 hectares and in the Changthang valley of Leh district over an area of 5000 hectares. As soon as information about locust infestation was received from the State, Government of India dispatched special teams from its Locust Warning Organisation to the affected areas in Kargil and Leh districts. These teams conducted survey, devised control strategy and supervised control operations in the affected areas in collaboration with officials of the State Government due to which locust infestation could be brought under control.