Archive · 24 Sep 2026
Karnataka Seeks Interim Drought Aid as Crisis Worsens
Karnataka is facing a serious shortage of rain.
D K Shivakumar asked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for emergency money to help the state.
Karnataka had first requested Rs 3,705.30 crore for 101 drought-hit areas.
The state now says 177 taluks are affected.
Officials are still measuring the damage in the newly affected areas.
Low reservoir levels could create drinking-water problems in Bengaluru and nearby districts.
Farmers, livestock and other parts of the economy may also need help.
Shivakumar wants some money released before the full assessment process is finished.
D K Shivakumar asked Prime Minister Narendra Modi to release 50% of Karnataka’s requested drought-relief funds as interim assistance.
Karnataka initially sought Rs 3,705.30 crore for immediate relief in 101 drought-declared taluks.
The state has since declared 76 additional taluks drought-affected, bringing the total to 177.
Low rainfall has affected agriculture, reservoirs, drinking-water availability, hydropower, fodder and groundwater recharge.
Shivakumar also requested advance release of the Centre’s share of the second State Disaster Response Fund instalment.
- Who
- Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar asked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Centre for assistance.
- What
- He requested 50% of Karnataka’s drought-relief memorandum amount as interim aid and advance release of the second State Disaster Response Fund instalment.
- When
- The request was made as the southwest monsoon entered its final phase; the letter recalled an earlier communication dated September 10.
- Where
- Karnataka, including 177 drought-affected taluks and the Cauvery basin.
- Why
- The state reported worsening rainfall deficits, potential crop losses, low reservoir storage and growing needs for drinking water, crop support and livestock protection.
- Initial assistance requested
- Rs 3,705.30 crore
- Initial drought-affected area
- 101 taluks
- Current drought-affected area
- 177 taluks, after 76 additional taluks were declared affected
- Requested interim release
- 50% of the memorandum amount
- Potential crop losses
- More than 40 lakh hectares
- Main rainfall season
- The southwest monsoon, especially rainfall from June through August
- Additional request
- Advance release of the Centre’s share of the second State Disaster Response Fund instalment