Karnataka CM warns bureaucrats against ignoring drought relief

Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has issued a stern warning to government officials to prioritize drought relief efforts, including water supply and crop insurance. He emphasized the need for field visits over paperwork to ensure accurate data and prevent corruption in public works.
Why it matters
Effective drought management is critical for the economic stability of the farming sector and the survival of rural populations facing severe water shortages.
Issuing a stern warning to officials against slacking or negligence in handling the drought situation, Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Sunday said that drinking water, fodder for animals, insurance for crop losses, and sinking of borewells to mitigate water problems in rural areas should be the top priorities.
Asking officials to undertake field visits rather than being dependent on paperwork and data, he said, “Shortly, teams from the Centre will visit your areas for inspection. You should be well prepared with facts and figures and present them effectively.”
Speaking to Deputy Commissioners and Chief Executive Officers of zilla panchayats during a video conference here on Sunday, he said farmers should not suffer because of official apathy, and that any slacking or negligence would not be tolerated.
The State’s drought situation, drinking water supply, fodder availability for livestock, agricultural activities, economic activities, and employment came under review during the meeting.
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