India releases extra drought funds

Indian Prime Minister Atal Behari Vaypajee has released extra funds for the drought-hit states in the west and north of the country.

Delayed monsoon rains have triggered the worst drought in over a decade.

The main opposition leader, Sonia Gandhi, said the assistance is too little, too late and also accused the government of discriminating against states governed by her Congress party.

Industry groups have warned the drought threatens to slow down economic growth.

The water shortage has also endangered power supplies, as India depends to a large extent on hydro-electric energy.

Meanwhile, as the drought continues, torrential rains and floods have claimed the lives of over 150 million people in the eastern states of India.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service