Karnataka declares 101 talukas drought-affected

Authorities in Karnataka have declared 101 talukas as drought-affected following a recent review. Deputy Chief Minister and Revenue Minister G. Parameshwara announced that a formal report will be submitted to the central government to facilitate the release of drought relief funds. Parameshwara also urged the central government to consider agricultural loan waivers to assist farmers, noting that drought conditions have also impacted parts of Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar.

In response to the drought, Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Minister Eshwar B Khandre has directed officials to ensure that wages under the VB-G RAM G scheme are paid within 15 days to encourage participation. Khandre noted that employment generation in Bengaluru South under the scheme was 80% lower than the previous year under MGNREGA. He warned Panchayat Development Officers against delays in processing wage payments, which could result in penalties.