Farmers Receive Rs 2,000 Relief as Centre Delays Drought Aid

Facing a prolonged wait for central funds to address the prevailing drought situation, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah of Karnataka has decided to proactively provide immediate relief to farmers. The state government, feeling the pressure from various quarters, declared assistance of up to Rs 2,000 per farmer as an initial step while awaiting financial aid from the Centre.

Siddaramaiah expressed disappointment over the lack of response from the Centre to Karnataka's request for National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) funds, which was submitted two months ago. Frustrated by the unavailability of Union ministers for a meeting, the Chief Minister highlighted the state's efforts to engage with the Centre, including written communications and attempts by revenue and agriculture ministers to schedule meetings in Delhi.

The promise of additional funds is contingent upon a positive response from the Central government. Despite persistent efforts, the state government has encountered difficulties in arranging meetings with Union ministers. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has personally faced challenges in securing time with the Home Secretary, adding to the hurdles in expediting relief efforts.

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In September, Karnataka urgently appealed to the Central government for a relief package of Rs 4,663 crore to address the severe drought conditions, citing extensive crop losses spread over 48.19 lakh hectares. The established relief norms specify Rs 17,000 per hectare for irrigated crops, Rs 8,500 per hectare for rainfed crops, and Rs 22,500 for perennial crops.

As the state grapples with the delayed response from the Centre, the government has taken proactive steps to alleviate the distress. A substantial amount of Rs 460 crore has been disbursed to 6.5 lakh farmers to address mid-term crop losses and sowing failure. This financial assistance has been drawn from the available funds in Public Distribution (PD) accounts, totaling Rs 780 crore.

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Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's recent announcement of immediate relief to farmers, amounting to Rs 2,000 per farmer, serves as a crucial precursor to the upcoming winter session scheduled for December 5 in Belagavi. It is anticipated that the pressing issue of drought relief will take center stage in discussions during this session.

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