Rahul seeks relief for hailstorm-hit farmers

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Monday asked the government to assess crop damage following hailstorms in the country and provide adequate compensation to affected farmers.

Shortly after the Lok Sabha met for the day, Gandhi said: "After the recent hailstorm and heavy rains, farmers of northern India are in distress. We want the government must act to give relief to farmers affected by crop damage."

Asking the government to send a team to the affected states to assess the damage, he demanded a statement from Agriculture Minister Radha Mohan Singh.

Responding to Gandhi's demand, Parliamentary Affairs Minister M. Venkaiah Naidu told the house it was a serious matter and the government would act immediately.

"The agriculture minister is in touch with the state governments to assess the situation. He will make a statement in the house either today or tomorrow (Monday or Tuesday).