Rajasthan declares 80 tehsils in 14 districts drought-affected

The Rajasthan state government has officially declared 80 tehsils across 14 districts as drought-affected following a deficient monsoon and significant damage to standing crops. The affected areas are classified as either severely or moderately drought-affected.

Districts facing the most impact include Jodhpur with 12 affected tehsils, Jalore with 10, Barmer with 10, and Balotra with 9. Other impacted districts include Pali, Dungarpur, Jaisalmer, Phalodi, Banswara, Beawar, Churu, Bikaner, Nagaur, and Sirohi. Rainfall deficits were notably high in Pali at 58 per cent and Jaisalmer at 54 per cent.

The Disaster Management and Relief Department issued the notification after evaluating rainfall deficiency, groundwater levels, surface water availability, and crop losses. The declaration will remain in effect for six months, enabling administrative relief measures such as the establishment of fodder depots and assistance for farmers and livestock owners.