Bengaluru, Oct 25 Karnataka is facing a severe drought situation, with crop losses reaching as high as 80 per cent in certain regions affecting foodgrain production, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister G Parameshwara said on Sunday.
Although the state currently has adequate foodgrain stocks, any future shortfall in production will require a thorough assessment of its implications and appropriate measures, Parameshwara said.
Speaking to reporters in here, he said that orders had already been issued for the release of compensation. The process is underway in accordance with the prescribed norms, and once the funds are released, they will be disbursed to farmers through the Deputy Commissioners.
“Around 80 per cent of crops have failed in some areas. The consequences will become clearer in the coming days. There could even be difficulties in food availability. If we do not grow enough foodgrains or production falls below expectations, there will inevitably be an impact,” the Deputy CM said.
He said he has asked the Finance Department to ensure that there is no delay in releasing the compensation.
“Approval has been obtained from the Finance Department. We have been seeking an appointment with the central government, but no time has been allotted so far,” he said.
He also appealed to the Members of Parliament and Union Ministers from Karnataka to rise above party differences and extend their support in addressing the drought situation and press the Centre to release funds.
The Deputy CM asserted that the state government had fulfilled its responsibilities and that the central government must also discharge its obligations.
The state government has announced Rs 1,250 crore in relief, but it is important to understand the framework under which this announcement was made, he said.
“There are also questions regarding the central government’s failure to provide relief under the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF). If the Centre and the State continue trading allegations, it is the farmers who will ultimately suffer,” Parameshwara alleged.
He further cautioned that if foodgrain production falls below expected levels due to the drought, its consequences will inevitably be felt in the coming months.
“At present, Karnataka has adequate foodgrain stocks. However, if production declines, we will have to assess foodgrain availability and take necessary measures.
Asked whether the Congress High Command had approved the formation of the Political Affairs Committee, Parameshwara said he believed the Chief Minister might have consulted the High Command before constituting it.
“The purpose of forming this committee is to facilitate collective discussions and decision-making on important matters rather than having decisions taken by one individual,” he said.
He explained that, in certain circumstances, it would be more appropriate for the CM to seek the views of committee members before arriving at major decisions.
Responding to concerns that the committee could emerge as an alternative power centre, he categorically dismissed such speculation.
“There is absolutely no question of the committee becoming another power centre. It is merely a platform for members to express their views. The committee will not interfere in day-to-day administrative affairs. Its role is to deliberate on major policy decisions and significant political matters and share its recommendations,” he clarified.
Responding to a question about controversies surrounding the sting operation receiving greater attention than the government’s achievements, Parameshwara described the situation as “unfortunate”.
“It is unfortunate. The government is carrying out its administrative responsibilities, while the Opposition is performing its role. However, if public discourse remains confined to a single controversy, the problems faced by people and the development initiatives undertaken by the government will be pushed to the background,” he said.
Parameshwara was reacting to the recent development in the state where former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah obtained an injunction from a court against telecasting or publishing an alleged defamatory video, which was posted in the social media.
The police have arrested a few while they are questioning some people who were allegedly the masterminds of the defamatory content.
Parameshwara stressed that the allegations must be investigated and action taken against those found guilty.
Asked about demands for the Congress High Command to intervene in the sting operation controversy, given concerns that it was damaging the image of both the government and the party, Parameshwara said that immediate intervention from the central leadership was unnecessary.
(PTI News)
