Karnataka minister assures farmers of support in drought-hit Ballari

Ballari: In response to the acute drought conditions gripping the district, B Nagendra, the Minister of Sport and Youth Welfare and the in-charge of Ballari district, conducted a tour of various villages in Siruguppa Taluk, engaging with local farmers.

In the face of distress, he offered reassurance, urging farmers not to panic, and pledged all necessary support from both the state government and district administration.

On Friday, he undertook a comprehensive review of the drought situation in villages such as Raravi, Agasanur, Bommalapura, Kottalachinta, and Mitte Sugur in Siruguppa taluk, offering solace to distressed farmers.

He inspected the crops in Manjappa's cotton field, Koravara Mareppa's chilli field, as well as the chilli crops of Hussaini in Agasanur village and also fields of Hanumantha of Mitte Sugur, and Maniyappa of Bommalapura village.

The Minister reassured farmers, emphasizing that the state government, committed to providing drought relief as per the survey, stands firmly behind them.

Nagendra, while interacting with people, addressed the issue of drinking water scarcity and instructed the ZP CEO to take necessary measures for water supply.

Speaking to taluk-level officials, Nagendra conveyed that, in line with the Chief Minister's directives, a comprehensive review of the drought situation in five taluks of the district would be conducted, and a report submitted to the state government by November 15.
He stressed the importance of ensuring an adequate supply of drinking water in villages, urging officials to make arrangements if problems arise.
He directed officials to stockpile fodder for cattle and prepare for drought management, assuring the state government's readiness to address the crisis.

Providing insights into the agricultural impact, Minister Nagendra revealed that out of the 4,43,000 hectares of cultivable land in the district, only 2,78,227 hectares were sown due to this year's inadequate monsoon.

The district, which receives 573 mm of rainfall, received only 261 mm this year.