Five dists in Rajasthan hit hard by deficit rains: Gehlot

Sowing of crops in these five districts was hardly 10-15 per cent and the situation of water level was also alarming, Gehlot told reporters here.

"The water level in dams and other water resources has been down by 65 per cent. We have to make arrangements for proper supply of water," he said.

Gehlot informed that Agriculture Minister Minister Sharad Pawar would visit Jaipur on August 3 and the situation would be discussed with him.

He also said that a state-level meeting would take place in the evening to review the situation.

"We are making preparations and would forward a representation to the Union government," he said.

Rainfall in Rajasthan is 35.51 per cent deficient as on date. According to official data, rainfall has been scanty (60 per cent less than average) in Bikaner, Jodhpur, Barmer, Jaisalmer, Pali and Nagaur, while 20 district are under deficit category (20 to 59 per cent less than average).

Only seven districts -- Bharatpur, Dholpur, Karauli, Jhalawar, Baran, Banswara and Doongerpur -- have been included under the normal category (19 per cent more or less than average) category.