Drought-like situation declared in Nagaland

A drought-like situation has been declared in Nagaland following a 37.15 per cent drop in normal rainfall that has adversely affected the cultivation of paddy and other crops.

The decision was taken yesterday at a review meeting chaired by Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio and attended by other officials, official sources said here today.

It has also been decided that the committee on calamity relief would immediately work out an action plan for mitigation of the situation and would also approach the Centre for necessary assistance to the affected farmers.

According to the data maintained by the Department of Soil and Water Conservation, the state has received an 'acute' shortfall of rains of 37.15 per cent during the period from January 1 to July 15 in comparison to corresponding period during the last year, sources said.

Low rainfall has affected 15 per cent of the jhum cultivation and 25 per cent the wet terrace rice cultivation, they said.

In certain pockets of border districts, villagers depend more on millets, maize, native beans and vegetables than paddy for their livelihood, and this year scanty rainfall, has further aggravated their problem coupled with an increase in rodent population and unknown pest infestations, officials said.

Horticulture and sericulture cultivation has also been affected in the state.