Guwahati, July 31: The Assam government has issued a notification outlining urgent measures to tackle an acute drought-like situation after 27 districts reported a rainfall deficit of over 40%.

According to the directive issued on July 28, all District Commissioners have been instructed to immediately assess the functionality of irrigation schemes in affected areas and ensure their timely restoration.

“The Agriculture Department shall ensure adequate stock of Bina 10, Bina-11, or any other suitable short-duration paddy varieties for immediate supply to farmers,” the notification stated.

So far, Assam has recorded a 43% overall monsoon rainfall deficit, with nine districts reporting “largely deficient” rainfall (over 60% shortfall) and 18 others marked as “deficient” (20%–59% shortfall) between June 1 and July 27.

Among the worst-hit districts are South Salmara (84% deficit), Darrang (79%), Barpeta (73%), and Bajali (72%). Most western Assam districts are facing rainfall shortages exceeding 50%.

“If the dry spell continues, farmers may need to shift to short-duration alternative crops. If water becomes available in the next 10–15 days, direct seeding of short-duration paddy varieties may be a viable option,” said Dr. Sanjay Kumar Chetia, Director of Research at AAU.

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