Karnataka Drought Crisis: 80% Crop Loss Sparks Alarm, Dy CM Demands Immediate Central Aid
Karnataka Deputy CM G Parameshwara warns of severe foodgrain production dips after 80% crop losses and urges the Centre to release relief funds.
Karnataka is grappling with a severe drought that has devastated agriculture across several regions, with Deputy Chief Minister G Parameshwara warning that crop losses have reached as high as 80 per cent in some areas. Speaking to the press in Bengaluru, the Deputy CM highlighted the gravity of the situation, noting that such massive losses could seriously jeopardize the state's foodgrain production in the near future.
Threat to Food Security
While the Deputy CM assured that Karnataka currently maintains adequate foodgrain stocks, he cautioned that a significant decline in production would necessitate a rigorous assessment of availability. He warned that the consequences of this agricultural shortfall would inevitably be felt in the coming months if immediate measures are not taken to mitigate the impact of the drought.
Demand for Central Government Intervention
G Parameshwara, who also serves as the Revenue Minister, has called upon the Central Government to fulfill its obligations. He specifically raised concerns regarding the lack of relief provided under the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF).
The state government has already announced a relief package of ₹1,250 crore. However, the Deputy CM emphasized that the state cannot shoulder the burden alone. He urged Union Ministers from Karnataka, including H.D. Kumaraswamy, and Members of Parliament to set aside party differences and work collectively to secure support from the Centre.
"If the Centre and the State continue trading allegations, it is the farmers who will ultimately suffer. Instead of spending time debating their respective responsibilities, both governments must work towards resolving the problems faced by farmers," Parameshwara stated.
Compensation Process and Funding
Regarding the disbursement of aid, the Deputy CM confirmed that orders for compensation have already been issued. The process is currently underway according to prescribed norms, and funds will be distributed to the affected farmers via Deputy Commissioners.
To ensure there are no bureaucratic delays, Parameshwara noted that he is pushing the Finance Department for the immediate release of funds, for which approval has already been obtained. He also revealed that the state's plan to send an all-party delegation to the Centre remains active, though they are still waiting for the Central Government to allot a time for an appointment.
Clarification on Tumakuru Route March
During the interaction, the Deputy CM also addressed the controversy surrounding a route march in Tumakuru. He clarified that while he had suggested granting permission—citing that the event had occurred peacefully in previous years—the district administration was bound by the Election Commission's directives. Because the Model Code of Conduct is currently in force, the Deputy Commissioner was instructed not to grant permission to avoid disciplinary action.