Bengaluru, 20 July 

Karnataka is facing a rainfall deficit in 178 taluks, including 60 with severe deficiency, prompting the government to prioritise drinking water supply and rural employment to prevent distress migration, Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Minister Eshwar B. Khandre said on Monday.

The State has released Rs 117 crore in advance to tackle drinking water shortages in rural areas, while administrative approval has been granted for works worth Rs 95 crore. A further Rs 25 crore is available across districts.

Khandre said local authorities have been authorised to hire private borewells or wells and supply water through tankers if existing drinking water sources dry up. In extreme cases, new borewells may also be drilled. He added that contingency plans are being prepared to ensure adequate drinking water if the dry spell continues for another three to four months.

The minister urged farmers to insure their crops, stating that those with outstanding bank loans, as well as those who cleared dues through one-time settlement schemes, can pay crop insurance premiums at Common Service Centres.

Khandre said the State implemented the VBG Ram Ji scheme from July 1 despite the Centre revising the funding ratio from 90:10 to 60:40. Around 5,00,000 person-days of employment have already been generated, with work provided to everyone seeking employment through Gram Panchayats.

The scheme covers 318 categories of works, including repairs to schools, health centres and government buildings, construction of farm ponds, irrigation canals, drip irrigation systems and mini forests. 

On farmer suicides, Khandre appealed to farmers not to lose hope, assuring them of the government's continued support.