Karnataka to Request Central Drought Relief Package

Karnataka's agriculture department has warned that a prolonged dry spell has slashed rainfall across several districts, putting major crops at risk. The state government intends to submit a formal request to the Centre for inclusion in the national drought relief scheme, seeking funds, water‑management support and expanded crop‑insurance coverage. Officials highlighted that districts such as Raichur, Bellary and Kalaburagi are facing critically low reservoir levels, making immediate assistance essential for farmers. The central government previously announced a drought relief package under the National Disaster Management Authority, and Karnataka hopes to tap those provisions. With the Kharif sowing season approaching, authorities stress that swift relief is vital to avert a deep agrarian crisis.