The central government has earmarked 650 million yuan ($105 million) for the prevention of plant disease and elimination of pests.

The Ministry of Finance asked local authorities to distribute the money in time and make sure the special funds will be used properly. The ministry will also pay close attention to the pest and disease control work.

In addition, 1.55 billion yuan of funds was appropriated to support irrigation and water conservation program in Jiangsu, Henan and Shaanxi provinces, as well as Ningxia Hui autonomous region.