Rain relief after crucial sowing period in Rajasthan

After a dry July, in August - that's more than a month late - there has been rain in most districts in Rajasthan. But with the crucial sowing season having gone by, these rains have come too late. Most farmers this year decided against a gamble on the monsoon and sowing has been 50 per cent less this year compared to last year. The government has already declared a drought in the five worst-hit districts in western Rajasthan, but other parts of the state are now clamouring for similar relief, as farmers say the late rains could ensure that fodder grows, but food grains this year will be less - definitely not enough to make ends meet.