Karnataka Government Reviews Drought Relief as BJP Protests

Chief Minister DK Shivakumar announced a comprehensive review of all areas facing genuine drought conditions to ensure accurate assessments before the state seeks aid from the central government. While the state has declared 101 taluks as drought-affected, Leader of Opposition R Ashoka claims approximately 170 taluks are actually hit. To manage the crisis, the government has earmarked Rs 635 crore following a reported 30 percent rainfall deficit between June 1 and August 26.

Deputy Chief Minister G. Parameshwara conducted inspections of crop damage in the Mysuru district, specifically within the Hunsur, K.R. Nagar, and Varuna Assembly constituencies. He stated that relief measures for farmers will be decided after discussions with the Cabinet. The state intends to submit a drought memorandum to the central government within two weeks to trigger fund releases, though Parameshwara noted that central relief requires strict adherence to Union Government guidelines.

Beyond standard relief, the government is exploring insurance for maize crops affected by Downy Mildew and compensation for commercial tobacco crops. Technical preparations for cloud seeding are also underway. Meanwhile, the Bharatiya Janata Party has launched a 10-day padayatra from Lingasugur to Ballari to protest the government's drought assessments and other administrative failures.