Kerala seeks drought assistance of Rs 7,888 cr

Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala has sought a financial package of Rs 7,888 crore from the Centre to take up drought-related relief measures in the state.

Official sources said a team from the Centre was convinced about the serious situation prevailing in the state due to drought and promised to make available the maximum amount possible, adhering to Central government norms. The team was also convinced of the drinking water scarcity in the worst affected Palakkad, Thrissur, Ernakulam, Kollam, Pathanamthitta districts. The members today held discussion with Chief Minister Oommen Chandy, Ministers Adoor Prakash, PJ Joseph and KP Mohanan in the Chief Minister`s chamber in the Assembly. PTI