§ DR. CAMERON (Glasgow, College)asked the Under Secretary of State for India, Whether any information has been received at the India Office regarding a threatened famine in Goojerat, Kankan, Kattyawar, and elsewhere; and, whether it is true, as stated, that 647 "great scarcity, bordering on famine," already prevails in Orissa; that the Government has been memorialised from Aska to open relief works and provide military protection; and that the collector of Vizagapatam has telegraphed for troops?
§ THE UNDER SECRETARY OF STATE (Sir JOHN GORST) (Chatham)In reply to a telegram from the Secretary of State, the Government of India reported, on the 30th of October, that in Goojerat (which, for the present purpose, includes Kattyawar) the situation was unsatisfactory, but no where critical. Distress in Khurda and Orissa had diminished, and position improved owing to heavy rain, but the paddy crop was not yet out of danger. Condition in Ganjam (North-East Madras) was critical, and distress might come later; but price of staple food had fallen. No information has been received of any scarcity in Kankan. Since that date telegrams have been received from the Government of India, dated 3rd, 5th, 6th, 7th, and 8th of November, reporting heavy rainfalls in North-East Madras and Orissa, which still continue. Reports have been received by post showing that, owing to a failure of crops in the Khurda sub-division of Orissa, a relief system was organized early in August last, and 76 relief works were opened, gratuitous relief being also given to about 1,000 people daily who were unable to work. The Secretary of State has no information as to a Memorial from Aska, nor as to any necessity for military intervention.