Government has ruled out any drought situation in the country. Agriculture Minister Sharad Pawar, however, expressed apprehension that the country faces the challenge of maintaining record foodgrain production due to weak monsoon this year.

Speaking at the 84th ICAR Foundation Day in New Delhi today, Mr Pawar cautioned that it would be a challenge to maintain 4 per cent agriculture growth against the backdrop of weak monsoon.

He said, for the first time, 5 million tonnes of non-basmati rice, 1.5 million tonnes of wheat, 2.5 million tonnes of sugar and 11.5 million bales of cotton were exported due to good production last year.

South-west monsoon, the lifeline of agriculture had hit Kerala on the 5th of last month but its progress through the country has been delayed, impacting sowing of crops such as paddy and coarse cereals.

On this occasion, former President APJ Abdul Kalam suggested development of farm practices, input material and mechanization system for small and marginal farmers.