As many as 50 districts, out of total 75 in Uttar Pradesh, have been declared drought-hit and the state government has suspended recovery of all dues from the farmers by the end of current financial year in the drought affected districts.
An official spokesperson said that the decision to this effect was taken on the recommendation of a natural calamity committee.
Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav has directed government departments to start relief works in the identified districts to provide all the necessary help to the farmers.
The districts which got lesser than 60 per cent rain during the period from June to September this year or where more than 33 per cent crops were ruined are included in the list of drought-hit areas.
District magistrates of these districts have been asked to chalk out a plan to deal with the situation and ensure that farmers are not harassed in the name of revenue realization.