Minister Nagendra reviews drought-hit areas in Sandur, promises relief for affected farmers

Minister B. Nagendra toured drought-stricken villages in Sandur taluk, Ballari district, on August 7 to gauge crop damage and discuss the ongoing drought. Joined by Sandur MLA E. Annapurna, Deputy Commissioner K. Nagendra Prasad and senior officials, the Minister examined agricultural fields at Vitthalapur village and conversed with farmers about their losses.

In response, Nagendra pledged the state's commitment to supporting farmers and implementing necessary actions, as directed by the Chief Minister. He highlighted that Sandur, compared to other Ballari district areas, has a larger population of small and marginal rain-fed farmers who have suffered heavily due to the monsoon failure.

Nagendra stated that a comprehensive report would be submitted to the Chief Minister, prompting the government to decide on relief measures. He also noted that, out of 40,000 dryland farmers in the district, 37,000 had enrolled in the crop insurance scheme this year, with cases of negligence being addressed. Sandur, which typically receives the most rainfall in Ballari district, faced a 67% rainfall deficit this year, severely impacting the region's farmers who rely solely on agriculture.

Concerns were raised about dust pollution from local industries and contaminated water discharge into lakes, causing fish deaths and health issues for residents. Nagendra announced plans to convene a meeting of officials from the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board to address these concerns, including the installation of filtration systems in industries.

He also mentioned the establishment of a Sewage Treatment Plant to prevent wastewater contamination of water bodies. The Tungabhadra Irrigation Consultative Committee meeting would convene once the reservoir reached 80 tmcft, with a final decision on irrigation water release pending the appointment of the committee's chairperson.