MP CM holds contingency meeting over sub-normal monsoon

With monsoon playing truant, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan today held an emergency meeting with the GoM on Agriculture to review the situation and directed the officials to provide all possible help to farmers.
During the meeting, Chouhan also sanctioned Rs 40 crore to deal with the situation in the state which is reeling under deficient rainfall.
"Chouhan asked the officials to ensure availability of seeds and fertilisers for the farmers," state Health and Parliamentary Affairs Minister and Cabinet spokeskman Narottam Mishra told reporters.
"He also ordered action under the National Security Act (NSA) against those selling duplicate seeds and thus playing with the lives of the farmers," he said.

The state has recorded 57 per cent deficit in normal rainfall in June, Mishra said.
"In view of the above situation, the Chief Minister immediately sanctioned Rs 40 crore and promised that it will be raised to Rs 200 crore to deal with the situation arising out of delayed rainfall," he said.

The Chief Minister also ordered starting of minor works under MNREGA scheme to provide relief to the farmers and directed Panchayat and Rural Development Ministry to implement it soon, the Minister said.
He also directed the Energy Department officials to ensure availability of power in view of the sowing season in rural areas.

The GoM on Agriculture has been set up with an aim to work in an integrated manner on matters relating to agriculture.