Monsoons continued to play truant this year too leading to a drought-like situation in several parts of the country, much to the dismay of farmers and policy makers. This, despite predictions of a normal rainfall by weathermen, has had an adverse effect on the country's projected growth and has compounded drinking water problem in most Indian states. Rajasthan, Orissa, Andhra Pradesh, parts of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Maharashtra are among the worst affected states. Official estimates claim that 25 of the 36 meteorological sub-divisions in India have recorded 'below average' rainfall. Late revival of monsoons towards the end of the season did ease out situation in some parts of the country but the fact remains that nearly 276 districts out of a total of 524 districts have received scanty or less rainfall.
The Manmohan Singh led- United Progressive Alliance (UPA) that took office in May is battling to keep country's growth target on predicted lines in wake of drought situation following erratic monsoons and inflationary pressures due to hike in international crude oil prices. The projected growth of 7 per cent has now been pegged at 6 per cent by the Finance Minister P. Chidambaram during the mid year review.
Drought situation in parts of the country has affected the Kharif production and has also not spared tea plantation in South India. An assessment made by the United Planters Association of Southern India (UPASI) has revealed that the 2004 crop will be lower by 10.5 million kg (mkg), a 16.8 per cent drop in comparison with the last year.
- Prakash Pillai
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