-The Times of India NEW DELHI: Ground water levels in various parts of India are declining as the country could not adequately recharge aquifers in deficit areas where it has been used for irrigation, industries and drinking water needs of the growing population over the years. The Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) has told the ministry of water resources that around 56% of the wells, which are analyzed to keep a tab...

-The New Indian Express SAMBALPUR: Farmers of Western Odisha are staring at a drought like situation with the rain playing truant. The region has received less than 50 per cent (pc) rainfall in June and even this month, the rain pattern has been weak. Although low pressure induced rain in Western Odisha for a few days, it was scattered and not sufficient for agriculture. According to official reports, Sambalpur received 74.37 mm rainfall...

-The Hindustan Times Sangrur: With a drought-like situation looming large in the state following a below-average monsoon so far, farmers in the district are worried that they will not get a bumper paddy crop this year. Now, the farmers are running from pillar to post to protect their crops from the scorching heat to reduce its impact on the produce. A less rainfall has also increased the input cost...

-The Hindu Overall, the Budget places considerable emphasis on agricultural renewal and agrarian prosperity. Obviously, the allocations are small but a beginning has been made to look at the problems in farming in a more holistic manner. The Union Budget is a resource allocation exercise. The priorities in the allocation were indicated in the address of the President to Parliament on June 9. While the President's address provides a framework for political...

-Deccan Chronicle New Delhi: With a drought-like situation looming large and food prices remaining high, the Union government on Thursday announced various agri-progra-mmes with an outlay of about Rs 7,500 crore to improve irrigation, soil health, research activities besides promising steps to revamp mandis.   Union finance minister Arun Jaitley said that the Centre will provide cheaper foodgrains through ration shops even if there is marginal decline in farm production due to inadequate...