Indian Meteorological Department [IMD] said the monsoon rainfall in the country a whole during June 2014 was below normal by 43 per cent and there are 80 percent chances of drought. A rivate weather forecaster Skymet also reported the same and said the chance of drought in North West India is now 80 per cent, Central India at 75 per cent and South India at 50 per cent.

According to Skymet, August month is expected to have better rainfall in the country however Earth Science minister Jithendra Singh ruled out the drought chances but accepted that rainfall will be below par.

Meanwhile Finance Minister Arun Jaitley has said there is no need to panic as sufficient foodgrain is in stock to face any kind of situation. Jaitley also warned the hoarders and black marketers if found with making artificial shortage.  Further the Finance Minister added that the rainfall is late and generally in July prices will be up. There is absolutely no need to get tensed, government will take necessary steps to tackle crisis situations.

(AW: Vamshi)