Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah held a crucial meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi on Wednesday, pressing for the immediate release of financial assistance under the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) to address the severe drought situation in the southern state.
High-Stakes Meeting Amid Drought Crisis
The meeting, which took place at the Prime Minister's residence in the national capital, comes at a critical juncture as Karnataka grapples with one of its worst drought situations in recent years. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah personally appealed to Prime Minister Modi to expedite the release of central funds that have been pending approval.
During the detailed discussion, the Karnataka CM highlighted the acute water scarcity and crop damage affecting millions of farmers across the state. The state government has declared 223 out of 236 taluks as drought-affected, with 196 taluks experiencing severe drought conditions that have devastated agricultural production and threatened rural livelihoods.
Financial Assistance Demands and State's Efforts
Siddaramaiah presented a comprehensive overview of the financial requirements needed to combat the drought emergency. The state has sought Rs 18,171 crore from the central government under the NDRF to implement relief measures and support affected farmers and communities.
According to the memorandum submitted to the central government, Karnataka has already released Rs 869 crore from its state disaster response fund toward drought relief. However, this amount falls significantly short of what is required to address the widespread crisis affecting numerous districts.
The Chief Minister emphasized that the inter-ministerial central team had conducted extensive field visits across drought-affected regions in October 2023, assessing the ground situation and verifying the state's claims regarding crop losses and water scarcity.
Political Context and Federal Relations
This high-profile meeting assumes greater political significance with the Lok Sabha elections approaching. The Congress government in Karnataka has been consistently urging the BJP-led central government to fulfill its financial obligations toward the drought-ravaged state.
The delay in releasing NDRF funds has become a point of contention between the state and central governments, with Karnataka ministers previously accusing the Union government of step-motherly treatment in providing disaster relief. Siddaramaiah's direct appeal to the Prime Minister represents the state's persistent efforts to secure necessary resources for its citizens.
Beyond the immediate drought relief, the Chief Minister also raised several other development projects and pending financial allocations crucial for Karnataka's progress. The meeting provided an opportunity for direct dialogue between the state and central leadership on matters of vital importance to the people of Karnataka.
As the state continues to implement its own relief measures, all eyes are now on the central government's response to Karnataka's urgent appeal for assistance. The timely release of NDRF funds could significantly alleviate the suffering of farmers and ensure adequate drinking water arrangements during the critical summer months ahead.
