Gujarat Declares Four Districts Drought-Hit, Announces Farmer Relief

Key Highlights

• Four Gujarat districts declared drought-hit due to uneven rainfall.

• Eligible farmers to receive ₹8,500 per hectare for crop losses, up to two hectares.

• Livestock owners receive ₹80 per day per eligible animal for two months.

• Gujarat has distributed 1.21 crore kg of fodder at ₹2 per kg.

• Eligible rural families to get 150 days of employment from November 1, 2026.

Gujarat has declared four districts drought-hit following uneven rainfall this year, announcing financial assistance for farmers facing crop losses and support for livestock owners struggling with fodder shortages. The affected districts are Devbhoomi Dwarka, Porbandar, Kutch and Jamnagar.

Although Gujarat received 89% of its average rainfall, the uneven distribution of rain created drought-like conditions in these districts, affecting agriculture and animal husbandry. The state government has announced several relief measures, including crop-loss compensation, financial support for cattle feed, additional rural employment and irrigation water planning for the upcoming Rabi season.

Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel said the decision was taken after a high-level meeting and an assessment of the situation under the Government of India's 2016 Drought Assessment Guidelines. The government aims to reduce the financial burden on affected farmers and livestock owners through these measures.

Gujarat Announces ₹8,500 Per Hectare Crop-Loss Assistance

Farmers affected by poor rainfall often struggle to recover their crop production costs and maintain their livelihoods. To provide financial relief, the Gujarat government has announced assistance of ₹8,500 per hectare for eligible farmers whose crops have suffered damage.

The compensation will be provided under the prescribed criteria of the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF), with assistance limited to a maximum of two hectares per eligible farmer.

The amount of assistance will therefore depend on the assessed crop damage, the eligible area and the applicable government rules. Farmers will need to meet the prescribed eligibility requirements and complete the necessary procedures to receive the benefit.

The Chief Minister said the state government stands with farmers and livestock owners during this difficult period and is taking steps to reduce the impact of drought-like conditions.

₹80 Daily Assistance for Livestock Feed

Low rainfall can also affect livestock owners by reducing the availability of grass and other animal feed. To address this challenge, the Gujarat government has announced fodder-related assistance of ₹80 per day for each eligible animal for two months in drought-affected talukas. The state government will bear the cost of this assistance. The eligibility conditions, applicable animal categories and other requirements will be governed by the relevant government guidelines.

The state had already taken steps to improve fodder availability in anticipation of delayed or insufficient rainfall. From June–July 2026, the distribution of fodder at subsidised rates was permitted across Gujarat. District collectors were also authorised to arrange fodder distribution according to local requirements under special circumstances. These measures are intended to help livestock owners maintain their animals without facing excessive additional expenses during the drought period.

Gujarat Distributes 1.21 Crore Kg of Fodder at ₹2 Per Kg

The state government has also strengthened its fodder supply arrangements to prevent shortages in affected areas. According to government data, Gujarat has distributed 1.21 crore kilograms of fodder at a subsidised rate of ₹2 per kilogram. In addition, approximately 3 crore kilograms of fodder is available with the government.

With the possibility of higher demand in the coming months, the government has initiated the process of purchasing additional fodder. These steps are expected to support livestock owners and reduce the financial pressure associated with feeding and maintaining their animals.

150 Days of Employment Under VBG RamG Yojana

Drought conditions can reduce agricultural income and create employment difficulties for rural households that depend on farming and related activities. To provide additional livelihood support, the Gujarat government has announced 150 days of employment under the VBG RamG Yojana in the talukas declared drought-affected.

The provision is scheduled to take effect from November 1, 2026. Eligible rural families will be able to seek employment in accordance with the scheme's applicable rules and procedures. The additional employment opportunity is intended to help affected households earn income while agricultural activities and rural livelihoods face pressure from deficient rainfall.

Gujarat Plans Irrigation Water for the Rabi Season

Water management is another key priority as the state prepares for the upcoming Rabi cropping season. The government has outlined measures to balance agricultural irrigation requirements with the need to maintain drinking water supplies.

During the Kharif season, irrigation water was supplied according to demand in the command areas of 44 dams. These command areas are the regions served by water released from the respective dams for irrigation.

According to the state government, 206 major dams in Gujarat recorded water storage equivalent to 66% of their total capacity this year.

For the upcoming Rabi season, the government plans to provide irrigation water in the command areas of 76 dams. It has also reserved water for drinking purposes until June 30, 2027, prioritising the needs of people and communities.

The planned arrangements are aimed at supporting agricultural activities while ensuring that available water resources are managed carefully during the period of rainfall deficiency.

Also Read: Global Food Prices Rise Again as Inflation Risks Grow for 2027

CMV360 Says

Gujarat's drought-relief measures aim to support farmers, livestock owners and rural households affected by uneven rainfall in four districts. Crop-loss assistance of ₹8,500 per hectare, fodder support, additional employment and planned irrigation water supply are central to the response. The government has also strengthened fodder availability and initiated further procurement. The actual benefits will depend on eligibility, crop-loss assessments and completion of the prescribed procedures.