Patna,(BiharTimes): Scanty rainfall in large part of Bihar may compel the Nitish government to declare the state drought-hit by the end of the month. Paddy transplantation work has been greatly affected by paucity of rain-fall till mid- August. Bihar was declared drought hit in 2014, 2013 as well as in 2010 too.

In his Independence Day speech at Gandhi Maidan, chief minister Nitish Kumar said the government was keeping a close eye on the present situation.

According to him several districts of Bihar have witnessed 50 per cent less rainfall than normal. The monsoon turf has shifted towards the south, resulting in less rainfall in the state. The situation is being closely monitored and the state government would wait for another week or 10 days. If things do not improve drought would be declared and the state government would ensure all possible help and grants to the farmers who have sown their crops.

Sources said that all the departments concerned have been asked to work and form contingency plans, which can be executed as soon as drought is declared.