Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said on Wednesday that the Assam drought situation has shown signs of improvement. This follows rainfall over the last week across several affected regions. However, the final decision on declaring a drought will be taken only after August 15.
Speaking to reporters after chairing a high-level review meeting in Guwahati, the CM stated that rainfall in key agricultural areas has restored hope among farmers. “We have witnessed good rainfall in multiple districts, especially in the lower Assam region. Our teams are on the ground collecting updated data,” he said.
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Rainfall helps paddy fields revive
The state had been grappling with severe dry conditions since mid-June, which disrupted sowing schedules and affected thousands of hectares of farmland. However, recent showers have restored soil moisture in Barpeta, Nalbari, Morigaon, and parts of Upper Assam.
Agriculture department officials noted that although the rainfall came late, it could still save the ‘Ahu’ and ‘Sali’ rice crops. “Our field officers are currently verifying crop health and groundwater levels,” said Agriculture Minister Atul Bora. He added that the administration is closely monitoring inputs from block-level offices.
Relief measures under discussion
The state government had earlier considered declaring a drought due to widespread crop failure reports. However, the CM clarified that any official declaration must be based on scientific data and recommendations.
“We will wait for a complete ground assessment and rainfall analysis till mid-August,” Himanta Biswa Sarma said. “If necessary, we will announce a special package. But it should be based on facts, not speculation.”
The Agriculture and Revenue Departments have been directed to submit final field reports by August 14. Officials are also considering potential compensation plans for farmers who have already suffered significant losses.
Experts urge long-term strategies
While the recent rainfall has brought temporary relief, agricultural experts are warning that short-term weather changes are not enough. They advise the state to create more resilient farming systems, including irrigation infrastructure and early warning mechanisms.
Dr. Debashish Dutta, a climate scientist based in Jorhat, said, “Relying only on monsoons is becoming riskier each year. Assam must explore micro-irrigation, seed diversification, and watershed management at a larger scale.”
His comments reflect a growing consensus that climate variability is no longer an occasional challenge but a recurring threat.
Farmers still cautious despite rains
Despite the rainfall, farmers in several districts remain anxious. In Nalbari, many cultivators have delayed sowing due to fear of another dry spell. “The rain came, but it may not be enough for the entire cropping cycle,” said Jiten Kalita, a farmer from the district.
Similarly, in Barpeta, locals claimed that the relief is only partial. “Water levels have risen slightly, but the damage is already done for many of us,” said another farmer. The CM assured that local administrations will remain in contact with all farming communities.
Central team may visit affected areas
The state has written to the Centre requesting technical support and possible assessment by a central team. If a drought is declared, Assam may become eligible for assistance under the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF).
Himanta Biswa Sarma noted that the government would not hesitate to take necessary steps. “We are prepared to help our farmers, whether it is input subsidies, irrigation support, or fodder distribution,” he added.
Meanwhile, district-level relief committees have been activated to conduct rapid damage surveys and prepare contingency action plans.
Opposition seeks faster action
Opposition parties have asked the state to expedite relief even before the official drought announcement. Leaders from the Congress and Raijor Dal argued that waiting for technical declarations could delay urgent help.
Congress MLA Rakibul Hussain said, “Farmers are already suffering. The government must provide immediate support in terms of seeds, diesel subsidies, and cash assistance.”
However, the CM reiterated that premature announcements without data could hurt the credibility of the system. “We cannot operate based on emotions. Relief must be guided by ground realities,” he said.
Final word after Independence Day
All eyes are now on August 15, by which time the state is expected to receive complete rainfall and damage data. The CM is expected to make a final decision shortly after Independence Day.
Until then, district administrations will continue field visits, monitor weather updates, and prepare emergency response plans.
Himanta Biswa Sarma ended his address with a call for patience and support. “Let us stand with our farmers. The government is committed to protecting their interests in every way possible,” he said.
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