TUMAKURU: Karnataka BJP President BY Vijayendra here on Tuesday urged the Karnataka government to immediately announce a Rs 10,000 crore special relief package for farmers, stating that more than 28 districts in the state are reeling under severe drought due to inadequate rainfall.
He said the state government should not wait for assistance from the Central government but must act immediately to support distressed farmers. Speaking to reporters after visiting the fields of farmers in several villages to assess the prevailing drought conditions, Vijayendra said the BJP has constituted seven study teams to assess the drought situation across Karnataka. He demanded that all 10 taluks of Tumakuru district be officially declared drought-affected, as the district has witnessed a severe rainfall deficit.
In many places, sowing has not commenced due to lack of rain. Instead of merely writing to the Centre seeking assistance, the Karnataka government should discharge its primary responsibility, he suggested.
He added that the process of seeking Central assistance can continue simultaneously. He stated that farmers are no longer in a financial position to pay their share of the crop insurance premium. Therefore, the Karnataka government should bear the entire crop insurance premium payable by farmers.
‘Drinking water crisis is severe’
Vijayendra expressed concern over the rapidly declining water levels in major reservoirs, including the Hemavathi, resulting in drying lakes and tanks. He said both people and livestock in rural areas are facing an acute drinking water crisis.
The existing allocation of Rs 1 crore per taluk is inadequate, and the government should provide an additional Rs 2 crore per taluk to strengthen water supply arrangements. He urged the government to ensure at least seven hours of uninterrupted three-phase electricity supply every day to protect horticultural crops such as coconut, arecanut, and other plantations.
Reacting to statements made by Minister Priyank Kharge regarding the Civil Police recruitment exam, Vijayendra said, instead of making arrogant statements, the government should focus on resolving the issues faced by unemployed youth.
Vijayendra said that differences between the CM Shivakumar and the ex-CM Siddaramaiah, along with internal power struggles within the Congress, are adversely affecting governance in Karnataka.