Is 2012 a Drought Year?
Bangalore: The monsoon this year is a never ending waiting game. Has the farmers’ plight failed to register on the national conscience, said Sagarika Ghose for IBN Live. While some parts of India are facing floods, in other parts the rains have failed badly. The delayed monsoon this year is a concern for the country and 2012 may be declared a drought year.
There is a drought like situation in several states. While, July is the most important month for food production, rains in July were below average. No rains further mean food inflation. Rajasthan experienced a rainfall deficit of 33 percent and Jaisalmer and Balmer are the worst hit districts in Rajasthan. Other affected areas were noted to be Jodhpur, Nagaur and Bikaner. Farmers said they were ready to abandon cattle and looking to migrate. Further, the state has sought central aid.
Check This: Mission Accomplished for The Indian Women Boxer, Mary Kom
Punjab saw a rainfall deficit of 66 percent. All 20 districts of Punjab have been affected by drought. The state seeks 
1 crore of central aid. There is little water available for irrigation and the water in Bhakaranangal system has fallen, reported IBN Live. Lack of electricity is another problem as it means pumping water from tube wells and rise in diesel consumption, thus making it an expensive affair.
In Gujarat, Kutch and Saurashtra were noted to be the worst affected. Rainfall deficit in Saurashtra-Kutch region is 76 percent. Overall the rainfall deficit in Gujarat is 54 percent. Cotton, pulse crops have already failed in the state and there is a likelihood of food inflation.
Check This:
