The first group would visit Gaya and its surrounding districts like Aurangabad, Nawada and Jehanabad. The second group would visit Munger and Lakhisarai, while the third one would visit Siwan and Saran Wednesday.

Kumar had requested Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to send a high-level ministerial team to assess the impact of the natural calamity in the state. Also, Kumar sought an assistance of Rs.23,071 crore to meet the financial burden caused by the 'unprecedented drought' in the state.

The drought has affected about 1.26 crore families in 26 districts with paddy coverage showing an overall shortfall of 57 per cent.

Last week 26 districts of Bihar were declared drought-hit in view of the scanty rainfall that has hit paddy seedling transplantation. Bihar has recorded a 38 percent rainfall deficit so far this monsoon season.