Gujarat Drought Four Districts Declared Affected, ₹8,500 Aid

Gujarat declares four districts drought-affected, announcing ₹8,500 per hectare assistance and fodder support for farmers.

By News National Editorial Team

The Gujarat government has declared four districts drought-affected following a significant rainfall deficit during the 2026 monsoon season. The decision covers Devbhumi Dwarka, Porbandar, Jamnagar and Kutch, where inadequate rainfall has raised concerns about agricultural production, livestock management and rural livelihoods.

The relief measures came into effect on November 1, according to the state government's announcement reported by The Indian Express on October 27.

Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel announced the decision in Gandhinagar in the presence of Agriculture Minister Jitu Vaghani. The government said the declaration followed the procedures prescribed under the Centre's Drought Manual Guidelines, 2016.

Significant rainfall deficit recorded

The four districts experienced substantially below-average rainfall compared with their respective 30-year averages.

According to figures cited in the government's announcement, the rainfall deficits recorded up to October 15 were:

• Devbhumi Dwarka: 83.5%

• Porbandar: 69.1%

• Jamnagar: 56.7%

• Kutch: 42.4%

Although Gujarat as a whole received approximately 89% of its normal seasonal rainfall, the situation in these four districts prompted the government to introduce targeted relief measures.

Farmers to receive financial assistance

Under the announced package, eligible farmers will receive crop-loss assistance of ₹8,500 per hectare, subject to a maximum limit of two hectares.

The assistance is intended to provide financial support to agricultural households affected by insufficient rainfall and potential crop losses.

The government has also outlined measures to support livestock owners. Cattle camps operating in drought-declared talukas will receive assistance of ₹80 per animal per day for two months through State Disaster Response Fund provisions. The state government will subsequently bear the cost of continuing this support, according to the announcement.

Fodder supply and livestock protection

Livestock owners often face additional difficulties during drought conditions because reduced rainfall affects grazing areas and fodder availability.

The Gujarat government said approximately 1.21 crore kilograms of fodder had already been distributed across the state at a subsidised rate of ₹2 per kilogram.

The government also reported holding three crore kilograms of fodder in stock, with additional procurement arrangements underway.

These measures are intended to help livestock owners maintain their animals during the period of agricultural distress.

Additional employment opportunities

The government has also announced up to 150 days of employment under the VB-G RAM-G scheme in drought-affected talukas.

The programme is intended to provide additional livelihood opportunities for rural residents whose household income may be affected by agricultural difficulties.

Employment support can help rural families meet essential expenses while agricultural activities remain under pressure.

Irrigation and drinking-water arrangements

Water availability is another major concern in the affected districts.

The state government said irrigation water would be supplied to the command areas of 76 dams during the upcoming Rabi season, depending on water availability and local requirements.

According to the announcement, the state's 206 major dams had recorded approximately 66% water storage.

The government also stated that drinking-water reserves were being prioritised to meet requirements through June 30, 2027.

The effectiveness of the relief package will depend on the timely identification of eligible beneficiaries, delivery of financial assistance, availability of fodder and proper management of irrigation resources.

Farmers and livestock owners will need to follow announcements from their district administrations regarding applications, eligibility and the distribution of assistance.

The drought declaration highlights the importance of district-level water management and agricultural preparedness, particularly when rainfall distribution varies significantly across a state.

News National will continue monitoring the Gujarat government's implementation of drought relief measures and further announcements concerning farmers and rural communities.

Source: The Indian Express, October 27, 2026, reporting on the Gujarat government's drought declaration and relief package.