Bengaluru: The state government will be distributing Rs 6,800 crore drought relief to farmers who are affected by severe drought situations across the state, said Agriculture minister Krishna Byre Gowda here, on Friday.
Addressing the press meet at Vikasa Soudha, the minister said, “The drought relief sought from the central government will be received within two weeks and once it is received it will be directly transferred to the account of the farmers through RTGS. Each farmer will receive Rs 6,500 per hectare. Those having irrigation farm will get Rs 13,000 per hectare. As many as 24 lakhs farmers from 136 taluks will benefit”.
State Govt delegation to meet Centre again
The state delegation is said to have sought Rs 3830 drought relief from the central government. But it has agreed to give Rs 1540 crores. “The central delegation visited the state to assess drought and had recommended to give proposed relief fund requested by the state. But now, it is not known as to why they have slashed relief funds. So once again, the state delegation will meet the centre and get the remaining relief fund,” he said.
Action against non-performing officials
It is alleged that in few places, officials have named dead persons for compensation. “Even though the father is dead, the account has not been changed in the name of son. Officials have given the same dead person’s account details for compensation. So we have looked into these issues and also took action against irresponsible officials”, Gowda said.
Compensation in December to kin of deceased farmers
Around 832 farmers have ended their lives. Out of these, 492 cases have been cleared. The remaining 262 farmers families will be compensated by December, he informed. “A committee has been formed under Dr Swamynathan to discuss issues related to agricultural crisis and farmer suicides. Soon it will come into force”, he said.
