Ashok Gehlot Urges Rajasthan Government to Declare Drought and Initiate Relief Efforts

Jaipur, October 8 (Daily Kiran) : Former Chief Minister of Rajasthan, Ashok Gehlot, expressed grave concern over the severe drought situation in western Rajasthan on Thursday. He urged current Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma to officially declare the drought-affected areas and commence relief operations without delay. Gehlot criticized what he termed "hollow promises," emphasizing the urgent need for provisions of fodder and drinking water for livestock.He alleged that animals in western Rajasthan are suffering from hunger and thirst while the state government remains focused on mere announcements. Reports about the dire drought conditions have been prevalent in state newspapers, yet effective relief measures have not materialized on the ground. Referring to the Chief Minister's announcement on September 30 regarding the opening of fodder depots in Barmer, Gehlot pointed out that eight days have passed without any depots or animal camps being established in the affected regions of Barmer and Jaisalmer.He mentioned that local administration officials in Gadra Road informed the media that proposals to start fodder camps in 23 patwar circles had been submitted, but approvals are still pending. The administration cited the "model code of conduct" as the reason for the delay. Gehlot questioned the government’s preparedness, asking why necessary arrangements were not made before the implementation of the code of conduct, given that drought conditions were already evident.He also inquired whether approval from the state election commission was obtained to initiate relief work. Expressing concern over reports of livestock deaths, Gehlot noted that locals have reported fatalities in more than 20 villages in the Gadra Road area of Barmer. The situation has escalated to the point where, according to reports, some animals are being forced to eat plastic and garbage. He accused local residents of border areas of experiencing price hikes for fodder, which have reportedly tripled, alongside complaints of hoarding.Gehlot further stated that the government provides only 50 rupees per day for larger animals in gaushalas (cow shelters), while operators claim that daily expenses range between 100 to 150 rupees per animal. Citing government data, he revealed that as of September 9, grants totaling approximately 383 crore rupees were pending. He noted that even BJP legislators from Jaisalmer have demanded an immediate drought declaration from the government, yet no such announcement has been made.Gehlot urged the BJP government, which frequently speaks of cow welfare, to address the pressing questions related to the ground realities. He called upon Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma to promptly declare a drought, open fodder depots and animal camps, and ensure water supply through tankers to the affected villages.