BANGALORE: Karnataka has officially announced a state of severe drought across 161 taluks, along with 34 taluks categorized as experiencing moderate drought conditions, following the recommendations of a cabinet sub-committee. In response, the Karnataka government has called upon all Deputy Commissioners to initiate drought management measures within their respective districts.

A comprehensive survey of 195 taluks in the state was conducted, focusing on assessing crop losses. Based on the findings presented to the cabinet sub-committee, the government made the declaration of drought for the 161 taluks.

The government's official statement pointed out that the state witnessed a substantial rainfall deficit. Specifically, June experienced a 56 percent decrease in rainfall, while July saw a 29 percent surplus. However, August presented a significant challenge with a staggering 73 percent rainfall deficit, a situation unparalleled in the past 125 years.

According to data from the Karnataka State Natural Disaster Monitoring Centre (KSNDMC), the state received only 487 mm of rainfall between June 1 and August 19, which is considerably lower than the average of 635 mm for this period.

Recognizing the gravity of the situation, the government established a cabinet sub-committee to monitor developments closely. Their recommendations led to the declaration of drought in the aforementioned 161 taluks.

In response to the crisis, the state government has issued directives to oversee private money lenders and instructed banks not to harass farmers during these trying times. The government reported a distressing statistic of 251 farmer suicides in the current year alone.

Out of the total 236 taluks in Karnataka, a total of 195 are being declared drought-hit due to insufficient rainfall during the southwest monsoon season.

The Cabinet sub-committee on disaster management met recently to finalize these declarations, pending the consent of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. The committee, led by Revenue Minister Krishna Byre Gowda, plans to prepare a memorandum for submission to the Union government within the next seven to ten days.

As per the guidelines set by the Union government, 161 taluks in Karnataka are categorized as enduring "severe" drought conditions, while an additional 34 taluks fall into the "moderate" drought category. Recognizing the crop struggles in the moderate drought taluks, the panel has recommended their inclusion in the drought-affected list. However, it's worth noting that grants from the Central government may or may not be provided to taluks in this category, as it depends on specific circumstances.

Once drought status is officially declared, task forces will be set up in the affected taluks. Funds will be allocated for arranging tankers and renting borewells to ensure a steady supply of drinking water. Additionally, farmers will receive free fodder and seeds, with a sanctioned budget of Rs. 20 crore allocated for this purpose, aiming to alleviate their hardships during this challenging period.

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