Nagpur: The entire Opposition, led by Shiv
Sena-BJP on Saturday staged a walkout from Maharashtra Assembly,
describing as "inadequate" the Rs 1,000-crore compensation
announced by the state government for farmers who have
suffered crop damage due to unseasonal rains.
Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan announced the package
for the affected farmers in the House, but the Opposition said
the financial assistance was "inadequate".
Replying to a marathon discussion on aid to the farmers,
Chavan said his government was sympathetic towards the ryots
and horticulturists whose crop had been damaged.
As many as 26 members across various political parties
participated in the discussion.
Chavan said due to unseasonal rains, crops in about
5.44 lakh hectares have suffered damage. The state recorded
1,229 mm rainfall, against the average of 999 mm, between June
1 and September 30.
But sporadic showers continued beyond the monsoon period
and 151 mm rainfall was recorded in October and November,
which was also in excess (by 51 per cent) of normal rains of
98 mm during the two months, he said.
The total average area under sowing is 131 lakh hectares,
but this year it went up to 140 lakh hectares.
Preliminary reports have been sought from the Revenue and
Agriculture Departments to ascertain the extent of damage, the
Chief Minister said.
PTI
