Bengaluru, August 28: Following a review of the drought situation in Karnataka, 101 talukas have been declared drought-affected. The state’s Deputy Chief Minister and Revenue Minister, G. Parameshwara, announced on Friday that a report on the drought will be prepared and submitted to the central government shortly.
Speaking to the media near his residence, he stated that the situation would be reassessed in 15 days, after which more talukas may also be declared drought-affected. In the meantime, a memorandum will be prepared and submitted to the central government. Subsequently, central teams will visit the state to evaluate the situation, leading to the release of drought relief funds.
Parameshwara remarked, “If the central government announces loan waivers, this issue can be addressed comprehensively. Drought has also affected parts of Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar. Just as former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh waived agricultural loans amounting to nearly ₹72,000 crores, a similar decision from the center would benefit farmers across the country. I urge the central government to consider this.”
In response to questions regarding the resignation of Planning and Statistics Minister B. Nagendra, he stated, “We have said that there is no need for Nagendra to resign. His name is not included in the charge sheet related to tribal welfare matters. We have told the opposition to raise their questions in the house, and we are ready to respond to any information they have.”
On the issue of Kannadigas stranded in Nepal, he noted, “According to the latest information I have received, currently, 12 Kannadigas are affected. There are reports that more people from Karnataka may be stranded due to flooding. Officials will be sent to Kathmandu to gather details, and immediate action will be taken.”
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