K’taka says 90% crops damaged, releases 1st instalment of relief

Karnataka's government announced on Wednesday that it will begin disbursing drought compensation to farmers from its own funds, following the revelation that approximately 90% of crops in the state have been destroyed. Deputy Chief Minister G Parameshwara disclosed that the first installment of ₹2,500 will be given to affected farmers immediately, with district collectors responsible for disbursing the money promptly.

The state has requested between ₹11,000 crore and ₹11,500 crore from the Centre under the National Disaster Response Fund guidelines, after estimating total drought losses at about ₹46,000 crore. Out of Karnataka's 240 taluks, 217 have been declared drought-affected, with ongoing ground verification in the remaining 23, which may add another 10 to 15 to the list.

The government's assessment includes crop losses in irrigated areas, with the situation being particularly severe in Ballari, Vijayanagara, and neighboring regions. The deputy chief minister emphasized that the government needs to aid farmers and people, stating that they have taken several steps to provide assistance. Karnataka has sent two requests to the Centre, estimating the loss at around ₹46,000 crore across 177 taluks, seeking only the amount permissible under central guidelines.

Three central teams have already assessed the affected areas using sample surveys and satellite data. The government is also requesting banks to defer loan recoveries and facilitate restructuring and refinancing for farmers. The drought has also impacted drinking water supplies in several villages, leading the state to allocate funds for drinking water and emergency measures.

The deputy chief minister stressed that immediate assistance to farmers should take precedence, with road works and other projects to follow.