Yadgir
The Karnataka government is likely to announce its third list of drought-hit talukas on September 16, with around 30 to 40 talukas expected to be included, Medical Education Minister Dr Sharan Prakash Patil said.
Patil said Yadgir, Gurmatkal and Shorapur taluks in Yadgir district are likely to be included in the new list. Several talukas in neighbouring Kalaburagi district may also receive drought-hit status, he said.
Patil explained that the government is declaring drought-hit talukas in phases after assessing rainfall, crop conditions and other prescribed parameters. The process is being carried out according to Central government guidelines and norms linked to the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF). He appealed to political parties and leaders not to politicise the drought situation.
He said 125 talukas across Karnataka had already been declared drought-hit, while more than 75 other talukas were experiencing drought-like conditions. Based on the present assessment, the government expects that nearly 200 talukas could eventually be brought under drought-hit status.
The Minister assured farmers that the government would continue monitoring the situation and take necessary measures to protect their interests. He said rainfall, agricultural conditions and other relevant factors would be considered before adding more talukas to the drought list.
The Revenue Department has indicated that 30 to 40 talukas could feature in the third list, which is expected to be announced on September 16. Patil said the government would continue the process in phases based on official assessments and prescribed norms.
