Bengaluru: In a tragic trend, over 45 children in Karnataka have died since January 2024 after accidentally falling into agricultural ponds. The alarming numbers have prompted the state agriculture department to roll out strict safety measures to prevent further incidents.
KSCPCR pushes for urgent action
The initiative follows a July 9 meeting of the Karnataka State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (KSCPCR), which directed the agriculture department to frame a standard operating procedure (SOP).
“We need to fence ponds and keep rescue equipment nearby for emergencies. Ropes and floating tubes at the spot will help save children or others who accidentally fall in,” said K Naganna Gowda, chairman of KSCPCR.
The commission noted that the deaths include at least two children who drowned in quarries, apart from those lost to open ponds.
Agriculture department issues circular
Acting on the commission’s directive, the agriculture department issued a circular on August 11, making safety compliance mandatory. Farmers applying for subsidies under agricultural pond schemes must now submit self-declarations confirming that protective measures are in place.
Officials from Raita Samparka Kendras will conduct on-site inspections to verify whether fencing, warning boards, ropes and floating tubes have been installed.
“The final 25% of the subsidy will be released only after officials confirm that safety measures have been implemented,” a department official clarified.
Incentives for compliance
To encourage farmers, the department has announced an additional incentive of ₹2,000 for those who follow the safety norms. Officials are also tasked with:
- Educating farmers on pond safety
- Collecting geotagged photos of safety installations
- Submitting reports to the department head office and zilla panchayat CEOs
The circular stresses the importance of wire fencing, ropes, floating tubes and warning boards around every agricultural pond.
Child safety activists welcome move
Child rights activists have welcomed the measures but stressed the need for constant monitoring and awareness campaigns. They fear that without regular checks, safety installations may fall into neglect.
“With monsoon rains filling ponds and creating waterlogging, children are at greater risk of drowning. Consistent supervision and awareness among villagers are just as important as physical safety installations,” activists said.
Hope to prevent further tragedies
The agriculture department believes that combining financial incentives with field-level verification will help ensure compliance and reduce accidents. The government hopes these measures will make agricultural ponds safer for rural children and prevent further loss of young lives.