HDK meets PM: Seeks release of funds from Centre
New Delhi: Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy met Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday and appealed for the release of pending funds under National Distar Relief Funds (NDRF) and MGNREGA for drought mitigation and wage component and material component to the sate.
The state faced floods and landslides due to monsoon fury in Kodagu, Malnad and coastal districts on one hand and on the other prolonged dry spells and deficit rainfall caused severe drought in 100 talukas out of 176 talukas in 2018-2019.
Against the memorandum seeking financial assistance of Rs. 2434 crore as per NDRF norms, central assistance of Rs. 949.49 crore was approved, which is less than 50 per cent of the input subsidy claim by the state, the CM said in a memorandum submitted to the PM.
During the Rabi season, there was only 96 mm rainfall against 188 mm and North interior Karnataka had 66 per cent rain deficit. Out of 176 talukas, 156 have been declared drought affected. Out of this, 107 are severely affected and 49 are moderately affected. Total crop loss during rabi season is estimated at Rs 11,384.47 crore.
Crop loss during Khariff and Rabi altogether is Rs 32,335 crore which has had an adverse effect on the State’s economy, he said.
The Chief Minister requested the Prime Minister to release these funds immediately so that the state can make further wage payments.
He also appealed to the PM to expedite the process to release Rs. 2064.30 crore as per SDRF/ NDRF norms for drought relief and mitigation.