Lurinjyoti Gogoi Lashes Out at Assam Govt Over Worsening Drought, Ineffective Irrigation

Assam Jatiya Parishad (AJP) president Lurinjyoti Gogoi on Monday came down heavily on the Assam government over its alleged inaction amid the deepening drought-like conditions affecting agricultural lands across the state.

Addressing a press conference in Dibrugarh, Gogoi highlighted the alarming state of farmland across Assam, stating that nearly one-third of the districts have received little to no rainfall this monsoon season. “Farmlands in at least 21 districts are reeling under dry spells, severely impacting cultivation,” he said.

Citing data from the Regional Meteorological Centre, Gogoi pointed out that rainfall in Assam has declined by an unprecedented 60 to 90 percent in the crucial months of June and July. He warned that the fallout has already begun to show, with the state witnessing a 10 percent dip in the average annual production of both paddy and tea—two of its key crops.

“The government has done nothing to counter the crisis or take measures to increase agricultural productivity,” he alleged.

Criticising the Irrigation Department, the AJP chief said the department—established in 1919—has failed to ensure sufficient water supply to even 10 percent of Assam’s cultivable land. Gogoi also took a dig at state Irrigation Minister Ashok Singhal, claiming that of the 3,919 irrigation projects under the department, over 15 percent are currently defunct.

Quoting data from national sources, Gogoi noted that Assam ranks a poor 22nd among Indian states in terms of irrigation performance and coverage. “This is a shame for a state where agriculture still remains the backbone of the rural economy,” he said.

Calling for immediate and concrete intervention, Gogoi urged the government to take responsibility for the crisis. “We are facing a severe climate and agricultural emergency, and the government cannot afford to remain a mute spectator,” he said.

The AJP leader’s remarks come at a time when farmers across Assam are voicing distress over inadequate rainfall, failed crops, and lack of irrigation support. With the monsoon window narrowing, concerns are mounting over food security, rural livelihood, and long-term ecological impact.

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