Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 11 May 2000

Vol. 519 No. 1

Written Answers. - Indian Drought Crisis.

Derek McDowell

Question:

15 Mr. McDowell asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the crisis facing up to 50 million people in India as a result of drought; the proposals, if any, he has to provide assistance in overcoming this threat; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13086/00]

Minister of State at the Department of Foreign Affairs (Ms O'Donnell)

The Government is certainly aware of the severe drought which is affecting India, as well as Pakistan and Afghanistan. Estimates differ as to the number of people badly affected but there is little doubt the figures run to tens of millions.

Those areas affected by the drought are facing long-term problems with water supply. They are arid or semi-arid in climate and therefore even in years of so-called normal levels of rainfall they face water shortages.

Worst affected are the north-western states of India and in particular Rajasthan. There are two principal causes to the current water shortages. First, last year's monsoon rains were lighter than usual and there has been little rain since that time. Second, the affected states are under increasing pressure from rapid population growth and consequently from over-farming of the land. At present the drought has struck most severely at pastoral farmers who are solely dependent on their livestock. The lack of suitable grazing is leading to substantial loss of livestock.

While the situation is serious, it is currently being dealt with by the Indian Government in co-ordination with the UN and the Red Cross. The Department of Foreign Affairs will continue to monitor the situation closely and will respond if necessary.