The Gujarat government seems worried about the agrarian crisis looming over the state because of insufficient rainfall this year. The state Cabinet discussed the issue during their weekly meeting held on Wednesday. The CM and deputy CM gave instructions to officials to regularise the process of payment of claims to farmers against crop failure. CM Vijay Rupani also instructed officials to design a formula for irrigation and water supply in rural areas to save kharif crops. The farmers across the state have been demanding water through irrigation schemes to save their crops. A senior government official said: "There is huge pressure on government from farmers and elected representatives about water supply for irrigation. There are many areas where crops are drying due to less rainfall and there are chances of great crop failure in many parts of the state, if not watered. The CM has therefore asked the officials to prepare a formula of distribution of water for irrigation along with keeping it reserved for drinking purpose till next summer." The official said the state government was also making preparations for the payment of crop insurance claims to farmers. "The CM and deputy CM spoke for more than half an hour on this issue and asked all the officials to see that no complaints about less or late payment of insurance claims should come from farmers. The finance department has also been instructed to speak to the insurance companies about the same," added the official. The official also informed that the state government has already instructed the revenue department officials and insurance agencies to prepare an estimate of crop loss and the amount to be paid against the claims. "The ruling party faced the consequences of distress from farmers during last Assembly polls with fewer seats. With the Lok Sabha polls next year, the state government has become active to resolve farmer issues," the official further added. STEPS TAKEN SO FAR

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