Bengaluru: Three ministers, including Revenue Minister Krishnabhaire Gowda, provided a comprehensive overview of the ongoing drought situation in the region. During the briefing, several key initiatives were announced to mitigate the challenges posed by the drought.
In a press conference he addressed in city stated one of the significant measures includes allocating Rs. 20 Crore to the Animal Husbandry Department. This funding will support the distribution of fodder and sowing seed kits to farmers, helping them cope with the adverse effects of the drought.
Revenue Minister Krishnabhaire Gowda highlighted that, as per the Central Government’s guidelines, 62 out of 113 taluks are currently eligible for drought declaration based on a joint survey. He noted that the monsoon in 2023 started weak, with a 5% rainfall deficit in June. Although July saw good rainfall, August witnessed a substantial 73% rainfall deficit. As a result, the total monsoon rainfall from June 1 to September 4 fell short of the usual 711 mm, registering only 526 mm. This 26% deficit has exacerbated the drought situation.
To address the issue, a cabinet sub-committee has been established to monitor and manage the drought situation. In their three meetings thus far, the committee reviewed the drought scenario in the state and discussed potential future developments.
The Deputy Commissioners have been tasked with conducting a joint survey of the 113 taluks where drought conditions have been observed. Out of these, 62 taluks are eligible for drought declaration according to Central Government guidelines. However, subsequent surveys have indicated a further decline in crop conditions. Consequently, it has been decided to conduct another joint survey for the remaining 51 taluks.
The Collectors overseeing these taluks have been instructed to submit their reports within a week following the survey. The decision on drought declaration for these 134 taluks will be based on the findings of the joint survey. Additionally, the government plans to seek assistance from the Central Government after making the official announcement.
Recognising the need for immediate action, a task force will be formed at the Assembly constituency level to address drought-related challenges. The Government has also authorised the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) to cover the costs of emergency drinking water supply through tankers or rented borewells in areas facing water shortages.
Moreover, to combat the shortage of fodder in the coming days, the Animal Husbandry Department has received an allocation of Rs. 20 Crore to distribute fodder sowing seed kits to farmers with access to water systems. This allocation aims to provide relief to the agricultural community during these trying times. The Government has also allocated 529 crores in grants to the Collectorate to address the ongoing drought situation.