Karnataka Crop Losses Likely to Hit ₹60,000 Crore; Relief Sought from Centre
Deputy CM G Parameshwara states Karnataka seeks central relief as drought-induced crop losses are expected to reach ₹60,000 crore across 217 taluks.
The agricultural crisis in Karnataka is deepening, with total crop losses due to drought expected to soar between Rs 50,000 crore and Rs 60,000 crore. Deputy Chief Minister and Revenue Minister G Parameshwara announced on Saturday that the state government intends to seek financial relief from the Central Government in strict accordance with established guidelines.
Massive Impact Across 217 Taluks
The scale of the devastation is immense, affecting a significant portion of the state's agricultural landscape. According to Parameshwara, 217 taluks have been officially declared drought-hit. The assessment process is currently in various stages of completion:
- 177 taluks: Loss assessment is finished, with an estimated loss of approximately Rs 46,000 crore already recorded.
- 40 taluks: Declared drought-hit on October 1; assessment is currently underway.
- 22 taluks: Currently under observation; "ground-truthing" and verification are required before they are officially declared drought-affected.
When the data from all these regions is combined, the total economic blow to the farming community is projected to reach the staggering Rs 60,000 crore mark.
Central Teams to Verify Ground Reality
To ensure accuracy, the state is preparing for a thorough verification process. Three specialized teams, consisting of Joint Secretaries and officials from various ministries—including the Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of Environment—are expected to arrive from the Centre. These teams will visit three distinct parts of the state to verify the rainfall deficiency and crop damage.
The state has already submitted two memorandums to the Centre. A third and final comprehensive memorandum, covering all 217 drought-hit taluks, will be submitted following the completion of assessments and the subsequent verification by the Central teams.
Rainfall Offers Little Relief to Farmers
While recent rainfall has provided some respite regarding drinking water availability, it is unlikely to salvage the agricultural season. Parameshwara noted that the assessment considers rainfall patterns and crop conditions over several months, rather than just recent events.
"This rain may help the availability of drinking water to some extent, but it will not be of much benefit to the crops," the Deputy Chief Minister stated.
Political Dimension: Kharge Seeks PM's Intervention
The drought has also moved into the political arena. Congress President and Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge, has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to request urgent central assistance. In his letter, Kharge highlighted that Karnataka is facing one of its most severe drought situations in recent years, characterized by significant rainfall deficiency and widespread distress among lakhs of farming families.