Include Dharwad in drought-hit list: JD(S)

JD(S) leader Gururaj Hunasimarad called for Dharwad district to be declared drought-hit by the state government, demanding relief for farmers affected by poor rainfall. At a press conference in Dharwad, Hunasimarad stated that while 101 taluks had been declared drought-hit, none in his district were included. He alleged the decision was made without proper assessment of conditions in North Karnataka.

Drought conditions had spread across several region districts, but the government had yet to respond adequately. Nearly 85% of crops in Dharwad had failed due to the southwest monsoon's absence, with rabi crops also facing impacts from reduced rainfall. Hunasimarad urged the government to conduct immediate field-level assessments and include Dharwad in the drought-hit list, along with providing crop-loss compensation and other assistance to farmers.

He appealed for political differences to be set aside to secure relief for affected farmers, warning that a protest could ensue if the government failed to act.