Bengaluru: Despite the good monsoon this year, drought looms large in at least 13 districts in the state, especially those in North Interior Karnataka. Speaking to reporters here on Tuesday, Revenue Minister Mr R.V. Deshpande said that the crops in 1.8 lakh hectares of land in the state have started drying up and if the monsoon did not resume, farmers may lose their crops. Besides, Yalandur taluk in Chamarajnagar district has been declared drought hit.
Though there were heavy rains, there is actually a three per cent monsoon deficit in the state with even the meteorological department predicting that the rains are likely to stop in August-September. In view of the drought forecast, the revenue department held two rounds of meetings on the preparedness for the drought situation. Farmers have been asked to cultivate low water consuming crops like ragi. Besides, the government is preparing to provide alternative jobs for farmers.
Drinking water arrangements have been made and drought will not affect supply of water. The government has ensured that there is no dearth of funds with the district administration for relief work. Each DC has Rs 5 crore with them for relief work, Mr Deshpande said.
The state government has not conducted the Land Owner Record Survey, which is mandatory once in 30 years, under the Revenue Act. The survey was last conducted way back in 1964 -- 54 years ago. The state government has decided to start the survey soon, he said. The government has decided to extend the Urban Property Ownership Records to Mysuru, Shivamogga and Mangaluru. In stages, it will be extended to other cities, he added.
