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National
217 of 240 Karnataka Taluks Hit by Drought, Losses Could Reach ₹60,000 Crore
✍️ theweek.in
🗓 03 Oct 2026, 05:02 PM
👁 18
A severe drought has now affected 217 of Karnataka's 240 taluks, with farmers warning of potential losses up to ₹60,000 crore.
A severe drought has now engulfed 217 of Karnataka’s 240 taluks, according to recent reports. The widespread water scarcity has left farmers across the state grappling with crop failures and dwindling irrigation supplies.
Farmers in affected taluks are reporting significant losses, with estimates suggesting that the total damage could reach as high as ₹60,000 crore. The impact is felt most acutely in the agricultural belt, where staple crops such as rice, sugarcane, and cotton have suffered.
The state government has announced emergency relief measures, including the distribution of water‑saving equipment and financial assistance to the hardest hit farmers. Officials are also urging the central government to expedite the release of drought relief funds.
Economists warn that the prolonged drought could have a ripple effect on Karnataka’s economy, potentially increasing food prices and straining rural livelihoods. The situation remains critical as rainfall continues to fall short of expectations.
Farmers in affected taluks are reporting significant losses, with estimates suggesting that the total damage could reach as high as ₹60,000 crore. The impact is felt most acutely in the agricultural belt, where staple crops such as rice, sugarcane, and cotton have suffered.
The state government has announced emergency relief measures, including the distribution of water‑saving equipment and financial assistance to the hardest hit farmers. Officials are also urging the central government to expedite the release of drought relief funds.
Economists warn that the prolonged drought could have a ripple effect on Karnataka’s economy, potentially increasing food prices and straining rural livelihoods. The situation remains critical as rainfall continues to fall short of expectations.