Gujarat To Ration Fodder For Livestock As Rain Deficit Hits 4 Districts

Gujarat has announced a subsidised fodder distribution plan for livestock owners in four rain-deficit districts — Porbandar, Devbhumi Dwarka, Jamnagar and Kutch — amid concerns over fodder availability following inadequate rainfall.

Under the scheme, livestock owners with one to five animals will be provided government fodder at a relief price of ₹2 per kg, Forest and Environment Minister Arjun Modhwadia said.

The move comes after the four districts received very little rainfall during the monsoon, leading to a shortage-like situation and raising concerns over the availability of fodder for cattle.

Fodder Depots To Be Set Up

A fodder depot has already been made operational in Porbandar city, while more depots are expected to be opened in other affected districts in the coming days.

Livestock owners who do not yet have a fodder card have been urged to obtain one immediately to avail themselves of the subsidised supply.

Employment, Drinking Water Plans

The government has also said it will provide employment to agricultural labourers affected by the deficient rainfall under the ‘Ji Ram Ji’ scheme.

Meanwhile, a review meeting was held with the Water Resources Minister and senior officials to assess the drinking water situation in Porbandar and surrounding areas.

The government said there is currently sufficient water in the Fodala and Khambhala dams. However, plans are reportedly in place to dig new wells and maintain water supply through the Narmada pipeline if water levels decline in the future.

Crop Loss Survey After Monsoon

The government has said a survey of crop damage caused by the prolonged dry spell will be carried out after the monsoon season ends.

Anawari assessment and survey work will be conducted as per the prescribed rules, following which a final decision on compensation to farmers will be taken according to the government manual.