Kumta
Farmers in Kumta and surrounding areas have raised concerns over the exclusion of cattle sheds from government disaster compensation schemes, stating that damage to livestock shelters during natural calamities causes severe financial hardship.
The issue came to light after a tree fell on the cattle shed of Latabai Naik of Hulasemakki in Moorur, causing damage during the monsoon. Farmers argue that while compensation is provided for damage to residential houses and crops, cattle sheds, which are an essential part of agricultural livelihoods, are ignored under existing relief guidelines.
In coastal and Malnad regions, incidents of trees falling on houses, buildings and farm structures during heavy rains are common every year. Many farmers, especially small and marginal ones, have traditional cattle sheds made of mud, stone and other locally available materials. Such structures are vulnerable even to minor incidents like falling branches or trees.
Farmers point out that despite government schemes encouraging dairy farming and livestock rearing, no financial assistance is provided for repairing damaged cattle sheds. They also allege that revenue and animal husbandry departments often do not conduct inspections or prepare official reports when cattle sheds are damaged.
According to existing disaster relief guidelines, cattle sheds are not considered residential structures and therefore do not fall under the category eligible for compensation. Relief funds are generally limited to human habitation and crop losses. Compensation is available through the animal husbandry department only in cases of livestock deaths or injuries during disasters.
Farmers said this policy creates additional difficulties for those who have invested loans and savings in dairy farming. Repairing damaged cattle shelters becomes an extra financial burden, particularly for economically weaker families.
The farming community has urged the government to revise disaster compensation rules and include livestock shelters under relief measures. They said cattle sheds are not merely structures but are vital assets that support rural livelihoods and agricultural income.
Farmers and dairy owners have appealed to authorities to bring necessary policy changes so that cattle shed damage caused by natural disasters receives timely assistance similar to other forms of property loss.
