Deputy chief minister G Parameshwara visits drought-hit Halakundi village, Ballari taluk to interact with farmers, on Wednesday
Ballari : Karnataka has sought Rs 11,000 crore in drought relief from the Centre against an estimated loss of Rs 46,000 crore, deputy chief minister G Parameshwara said during his visit to drought-hit Halakundi village in Ballari taluk on Wednesday. Reviewing crop damage in the village, he said the state is facing its worst drought in 75 years. Farmer Durganna said he had spent about Rs 45,000 cultivating tur on three acres. With adequate rainfall, the fields were expected to yield 5-6 quintals per acre. They said the Rs 2,500 relief announced by the govt was insufficient and pointed out that crop insurance claims were yet to be settled despite premiums being paid. Parameshwara said the Centre would provide Rs 8,500 per hectare as drought relief, while the state govt would add Rs 2,500.
“The govt has already declared 217 taluks as drought-hit and will add more taluks to the list in the coming days,” he said. Parameshwara said prolonged rain deficit has dried up crops, causing heavy losses to farmers. “We will not allow farmers to die by suicide,” he said.
During his interaction with them, he heard accounts of crop damage and the hardships they continue to face. However, the rain deficit destroyed the crop, leaving him with no yield and substantial losses. Farmers urged the govt to assess the damage and provide adequate compensation.