Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar led a meeting with Deputy Commissioners and Zilla Panchayat CEOs at Vidhana Soudha to discuss the ongoing drought situation in the state. The focus was on tackling issues like water supply, livestock fodder availability, agricultural activities, and relief measures in affected areas.
Deputy Chief Minister G. Parameshwara and Ministers K.J. George, Ramalinga Reddy, Eshwar Khandre, and Yathindra Siddaramaiah were present at the meeting. Chief Secretary Shalini Rajneesh, Chief Minister’s Economic Advisor L.K. Atheeq, and other senior officials also attended.
During the review, CM Shivakumar urged officials to work collectively as “Team Karnataka” to effectively implement drought relief measures statewide. He emphasized the importance of relying on field reports over paperwork and warned against any negligence.
Chief Minister Shivakumar highlighted that Karnataka is experiencing a 60% rainfall deficit, affecting 178 taluks. He instructed district administrations to compile detailed data within 15 days for a comprehensive drought report to be submitted to the Centre.
To address water shortages, CM Shivakumar allocated an additional Rs one crore for each rural taluk and advised officials to guide farmers based on rainfall patterns and reservoir levels. He stressed the need for transparency in borewell drilling, warning against fake claims and holding CEOs accountable.
Deputy CM Parameshwara emphasized the importance of ensuring no hardships for people or livestock during the worsening drought. He called for a focus on water supply, employment opportunities, and fodder availability, directing officials to expedite works under the VB-G RAM G Scheme and submit ground reports for relief measures and Central aid.
