Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has advised farmers not to sow crops until further notice, citing a significant deficit in monsoon rainfall across the state. The warning comes as the state grapples with a delayed and weak southwest monsoon, raising concerns about agricultural output and water availability.
Monsoon deficit triggers caution
Addressing a press conference in Bengaluru, Shivakumar said that the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast below-normal rainfall for the next two weeks. "We cannot risk sowing without adequate soil moisture. I urge farmers to wait until we have a clearer picture of the monsoon revival," he stated. According to data from the Karnataka State Natural Disaster Monitoring Centre (KSNDMC), the state has received 45% less rainfall than normal since June 1.
The deficit is most acute in the southern and coastal districts, including Mysuru, Hassan, Dakshina Kannada, and Udupi, where rainfall shortfall ranges between 50% and 70%. These regions are critical for paddy, sugarcane, and areca nut cultivation.
Opposition demands immediate relief
Leader of the Opposition R Ashoka has urged the government to declare drought-hit areas without delay and initiate relief measures on a war footing. "Any delay in declaring drought-affected taluks will hamper crop loss assessments and delay compensation to farmers. The government must act now," Ashoka said in a statement. He also demanded that the state release financial aid for farmers who have already sown seeds and are facing crop failure.
Ashoka further alleged that the government was slow in responding to the crisis. "Farmers are struggling. They need immediate support in the form of input subsidies, drinking water supply, and fodder for livestock," he added.
Government's contingency plan
In response, the Karnataka government has activated contingency plans, including the formation of a task force to monitor the situation. The state has also sought a central team to assess the drought situation. Shivakumar said that the government is prepared to provide compensation under the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) once drought is officially declared.
Agriculture Minister N Cheluvarayaswamy announced that the government will distribute drought-resistant seeds and provide free electricity for irrigation to mitigate the impact. "We are coordinating with the IMD and KSNDMC for real-time data. Our priority is to minimize farmer distress," he said.
Impact on kharif crops
The monsoon deficit poses a serious threat to kharif crops, which are sown between June and September. Paddy, maize, pulses, and oilseeds are the main crops affected. According to the Department of Agriculture, only 1.2 million hectares have been sown so far, compared to the normal 2.5 million hectares for this period.
Experts warn that a prolonged dry spell could lead to a sharp drop in agricultural output, affecting both farmers and the state's economy. Karnataka contributes significantly to India's coffee, silk, and horticulture production.
Water reservoir levels decline
The water levels in major reservoirs across the state are also declining rapidly. The Cauvery basin reservoirs, including Krishnaraja Sagara (KRS) and Kabini, are at 30% of their capacity, compared to 50% last year. This has raised concerns about drinking water supply in Bengaluru and other cities.
The state government has instructed the Karnataka Water Resources Department to release water from reservoirs judiciously and prioritize drinking water over irrigation. Bengaluru, which relies heavily on the Cauvery river, may face water cuts if the situation does not improve.
Political blame game
The monsoon deficit has also sparked a political slugfest between the ruling Congress and the opposition BJP. While the government blames climate change and erratic weather patterns, the opposition accuses it of neglecting farmers and failing to manage water resources.
Former chief minister Basavaraj Bommai said that the Congress government had "no vision" for drought management. "They are busy with political vendetta instead of preparing for a crisis that was predicted months ago," he claimed.
Shivakumar, however, dismissed the criticism, saying that the government is doing everything possible. "We are not playing politics with farmers' lives. We will ensure no farmer goes without support," he asserted.
