Karnataka Cabinet Declares Drought Situation in 195 Taluks, Seeks Central Compensation

The Karnataka cabinet has officially declared a drought situation in 195 taluks of the state due to crop losses incurred, primarily attributed to adverse weather conditions. The state has reported a total loss of Rs 30,432 crores, with crops on 39,039 lakh hectares of land being affected. The government will request Rs 4,860 crores in compensation from the Central government to address the situation.

Horticulture crop losses amounting to Rs 2,655 crores will necessitate a compensation request of Rs 206 crore. Additional demands include Rs 104 crore for establishing 195 cattle camps, Rs 126.3 crore for setting up 624 cattle feed banks, and Rs 25 crore for procuring medicines. Karnataka’s Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has directed the Revenue Minister to submit a memorandum to the Central government outlining the state’s needs in light of the drought declaration.