Lucknow, April 2 -- Chief minister Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday directed officials to assess the crop damage due to unseasonal rain, maintain dialogue with farmers and ensure timely payment of compensation.

Reviewing the situation after unseasonal rainfall in various districts, he sought reports from district magistrates about farmers' difficulties.

Directing officials to remain alert, he said, "Farmers' welfare is the government's top priority. Officers should assess the damage to crops, prepare data of crop loss and ensure relief is provided to farmers at the earliest."

He said the revenue and agriculture departments and insurance companies should conduct a joint survey of crop damage.

They should submit a report to the government s...