Ahmedabad, Dec 3 (NationPress) The government of Gujarat has allocated over Rs 1,098 crore in aid directly into the bank accounts of more than 3.39 lakh farmers whose crops suffered due to the recent unseasonal rainfall.

During a media briefing post a cabinet meeting led by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare Minister Jitu Vaghani stated that the government acted with sensitivity and urgency in response to the unexpected rain that devastated the hopes of farmers across various districts.

As part of the Chief Minister-led agricultural relief initiative totaling Rs 10,000 crore, the state has seen over 29.80 lakh applications from impacted farmers.

The Agricultural Department is systematically verifying applications, after which funds are being transferred directly to beneficiaries via DBT. To date, bills exceeding Rs 1,497 crore have been generated, and assistance has already reached a considerable number of farmers. Applications for the relief package remain open through village-level VCE/VLE centers until December 5, ensuring that no eligible farmer goes unsupported.

Vaghani noted that remaining payments will also be distributed in phases, with the government taking every possible measure to ensure timely support for all farmers affected by losses.

In a related note, during the cabinet meeting in Gandhinagar, the state government issued numerous directives aimed at enhancing public health and environmental management across Gujarat.

Vaghani informed the media that the Chief Minister has mandated officials to initiate a comprehensive statewide campaign for the repair and thorough cleaning of toilet blocks within all government schools.

The Chief Minister has also called for immediate inspections and swift enhancements of sanitation, drainage, and water facilities wherever necessary.

Raising alarms about rising pollution in rivers and local water channels, the Chief Minister directed officials to promptly identify pollution sources and implement corrective actions to prevent waste discharge.

The cabinet also assessed air quality levels in major urban areas. CM Patel instructed departments to remain vigilant and devise an extensive action plan to combat air pollution, stressing the importance of addressing its long-term adverse impacts proactively.