Today(on 29th April),Supreme Court urges transparency as it demands the Centre to reveal Karnataka’s drought relief funding amid severe agricultural crisis. Next hearing scheduled for May 6.
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BENGALURU: The Supreme Court has directed the Centre to disclose the quantum of relief recommended by the inter-ministerial committee for Karnataka, which has sought drought relief funds. This decision came on Monday, April 29, during a hearing in the apex court, with the next date of hearing scheduled for May 6. The state of Karnataka has been grappling with agricultural distress and water scarcity, leading it to approach the Central government for financial assistance.
The Centre on Monday told the Supreme Court that around Rs 3,400 crore has been released to the Karnataka government for drought management in the state.
A bench of Justices B R Gavai and Sandeep Mehta was hearing a plea filed by the Karnataka government seeking a direction to the Centre to release financial assistance from the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) to the state for drought management.
“Some amount has already been released,”
-the bench asked Attorney General R Venkataramani, who was appearing for the Centre.
The state government has raised the pressing issue of pending claims under Disaster Management norms. Karnataka officials expressed their dissatisfaction with the Centre’s approach, alleging non-disclosure of the relief recommended by the committee. The urgency of the situation cannot be overstated, as the state has already declared 226 out of the total 236 Taluks in Karnataka as drought-hit. Furthermore, there has been a significant crop loss, with approximately 48 lakh hectares of land affected.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah highlighted the stark disparity between the state’s demand for drought relief funds and the amount released by the union government. The state had initially requested a staggering Rs.18,171 crore, considering the extent of the agricultural crisis.
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However, the Centre only ordered the release of Rs.3,454 crore, a mere fraction of the state’s demand. Frustrated by the inadequate response, the state government resorted to approaching the Supreme Court for intervention.
“In Karnataka, the current situation is dire, with our farmers and agricultural communities bearing the brunt of the drought. Despite our plea for a substantial relief fund of Rs.18,171 crore to address the crisis effectively, the Centre’s decision to allocate only Rs.3,454 crore falls below our expectations and the genuine needs on the ground.”
– Chief Minister Siddaramaiah expressed his disappointment.
The state government’s appeal for drought relief funds highlights the critical necessity of aiding the affected areas. Severe agricultural distress and water scarcity in Karnataka have significantly impacted farmers’ livelihoods and the economy. However, the allocation of a minimal amount compared to the request has intensified the crisis.
“The recommendations of the inter-ministerial committee regarding relief funds should be transparent, and the Centre ought to reveal the amount of relief it considers suitable for Karnataka. This transparency is vital for us to comprehend the government’s position and respond accordingly.”
– emphasized a government official involved in the case.
The Supreme Court’s directive to the Centre to disclose the recommended relief amount brings hope to the state. Transparency in decision-making and allocation of funds can provide clarity and pave the way for effective utilization of resources.
The state government’s declaration of 226 Taluks as drought-hit highlights the widespread nature of the crisis. The agricultural sector, which forms the backbone of Karnataka’s economy, has been severely impacted, leading to concerns over food security and rural distress. The state has been grappling with inadequate rainfall, resulting in crop failures and water scarcity in various regions.
“The drought has presented considerable challenges to our farmers, who are grappling to sustain themselves. Crop failures and dwindling water sources have plunged them into despair. It is crucial for the Centre to recognize the severity of the situation and offer the essential relief funds to ease the plight of our farmers.”
-urged a representative of an agricultural organization.
As Karnataka continues to grapple with the agricultural distress and water scarcity, the state government remains committed to seeking relief funds to mitigate the impact on farmers and rural communities. The urgency of the situation necessitates immediate action and collaboration between the state and central authorities to provide timely assistance and support.
The Centre on Monday told the Supreme Court that around Rs 3,400 crore has been released to the Karnataka government for drought management in the state.
A bench of Justices B R Gavai and Sandeep Mehta was hearing a plea filed by the Karnataka government seeking a direction to the Centre to release financial assistance from the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) to the state for drought management.
“Some amount has already been released,” the bench asked Attorney General R Venkataramani, who was appearing for the Centre.
