Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister warns of potential food production impact after severe crop losses
Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister, Parameshwara, has warned that severe drought conditions, which have led to an 80% crop loss in some regions, could affect food production in the coming months. The state government is preparing a third request for drought-relief funds from the central government and has begun processing compensation for affected farmers.
By The Junior Post
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Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister, Parameshwara, stated on October 25, 2026, that the state is facing a severe drought. This drought has caused crop losses of up to 80% in some areas, which could impact the amount of food produced.
The drought is due to a deficient southwest monsoon, meaning the state received much less rain than usual. Karnataka only got 551mm of rainfall during the Southwest monsoon, which is significantly less than the normal 852mm. This makes it the second-lowest seasonal rainfall since 1956.
Parameshwara, who also manages the Revenue department, mentioned that while Karnataka currently has enough foodgrain stocks, a drop in production would require checking how much foodgrain is available and taking necessary steps. He cautioned that if foodgrain production falls below expected levels, the effects will be felt in the coming months.
The state government has declared 226 taluks as drought-hit. Crop losses have happened across 57.93 lakh hectares, with damages ranging from 33% to 100%. Most affected areas have seen over 50% damage. The livelihoods of about 61.91 lakh small and marginal farmers have been impacted.
Parameshwara has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan, asking for their help to get financial assistance. The state has requested ₹62,481 crore in compensation for drought-related losses and ₹20,585 crore in assistance from the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) for things like protecting cattle, providing drinking water, and giving subsidies for crop loss.
The state government is preparing a third request for drought-relief funds from the central government. Parameshwara alleged that the central government has not provided relief under the NDRF. He also said that the state government is using its own money to help farmers without waiting for central assistance. Orders have been given to release compensation to farmers, and the process is underway.
Knowledge Vault
Drought and its Impact
A drought is a period of unusually dry weather that lasts for a long time, causing a shortage of water. When there isn't enough rain, crops cannot grow properly, leading to crop losses. This can reduce the amount of food available for people and animals, affect farmers' incomes, and even lead to shortages of drinking water.
Monsoon Season
The monsoon is a seasonal wind that brings heavy rainfall, especially to South and Southeast Asia. In India, the southwest monsoon is very important for agriculture, as it provides most of the water needed for crops. If the monsoon is 'deficient,' it means it brings less rain than usual, which can cause droughts.
Government Relief Efforts
When a natural disaster like a drought occurs, governments often step in to help affected people. This can include providing financial compensation to farmers for their losses, ensuring access to drinking water, and protecting livestock. Governments may also request funds from higher levels of government or national disaster relief programs to support these efforts.
Check your understanding
- What is the main reason for the crop losses in Karnataka, according to Deputy Chief Minister Parameshwara?
- Too much rainfall
- A severe drought caused by a deficient southwest monsoon
- Pest infestations
- Lack of proper farming equipment
- How much rainfall did Karnataka receive during the Southwest monsoon, compared to the normal amount?
- 852mm, which is more than normal
- 551mm, which is significantly less than the normal 852mm
- 1000mm, which is double the normal amount
- No rainfall at all
- What action has the Karnataka state government taken to address the drought situation?
- Ignored the problem completely
- Waited for the central government to solve everything
- Declared 226 taluks as drought-hit and started processing compensation for farmers
- Increased water prices for farmers