Karnataka govt to distribute benefits to the poor on 4th anniversary

13 of 16 districts in Karnataka declared worst-hit by drought. Siddaramaiah govt not to celebrate 4th anniversary

In light of the severe drought that Karnataka is facing, the Siddaramaiah government has decided to skip grand celebrations marking the 4th year of the Congress government in the state.

Social Welfare Minister H. Anjaneya said that there would be no grand celebrations on May 13 and that water and fodder distribution will take its place. The other benefit that will be offered to the poor from the rural areas is employment. 

In a latest report released by the Cabinet Ministry, sixteen districts in Karnataka are facing severe drought and the farmers have not been able to commence the sowing of Kharif crops. In fact, 10 of the 16 districts that have been declared the worst affected include North Karnataka. Yadgir, Gadag, Kalaburagi, Raichur and Vijayapur. Water levels in all the 13 important reservoirs, which include Almatti and Krishnarajasagar, are also low. The government is likely to approach the Centre for financial assistance.