Jharkhand announces Rs 1398 crore package for drought-hit

Jharkhand government today announced a package of Rs 1,398 crore to drought-hit farmers that covers subsidised diesel, distribution of seeds and construction of small check dams.

"The package covers 50 per cent subsidy in diesel purchase for farmers, distribution of subsidised Rabi and Kharif (for next season) seeds, pump-sets, work under MG-NREGA, construction of small check dams and ponds," Agriculture Minister Randhir Singh said here.

He said the insurance premium paid by the farmers this year would be returned.

A task force has been set up to monitor the relief measures, he said.

"We have also taken a block-wise assessment on drought situation and sent it to the Centre for its approval as per its yardsticks," he said.