President Hu Jintao and Premier Wen Jiabao have ordered all-out efforts to combat the severe drought in the country's vast wheat-growing area.

Vice Premier Hui Liangyu also chaired a special State Council meeting assessing the drought situation. The central government has listed the anti-drought campaign as the most urgent task for the spring season.

Officials say governments at all levels must fight the drought disaster, stabilize this year's agricultural production, and safeguard farmers' income and livelihood.

Money, equipment and personnel will be sent to the drought hit regions, and efforts will be made to prevent fire accidents.

(CCTV February 6, 2009)