Karnataka Government Directs Officials to Intensify Drought Management Across the State

The Karnataka government has stepped up its focus on drought preparedness, with Chief Minister D K Shivakumar and Deputy Chief Minister Dr G Parameshwara holding a statewide video conference with Deputy Commissioners and Chief Executive Officers. The meeting reviewed the current drought situation and outlined key measures to ensure timely relief and effective management across affected districts.

Senior ministers, top government officials, and district administrators participated in the review meeting held at Vidhana Soudha. Discussions covered drinking water supply, drought relief measures, agriculture, fertiliser availability, livestock welfare, and steps to prevent migration from rural areas as water shortages continue to affect several regions.

Chief Minister D K Shivakumar instructed officials to work as a coordinated team and focus on delivering results at the ground level rather than relying only on written reports. He stressed that field level feedback was more valuable than paperwork and asked district administrations to ensure that relief measures were implemented within the prescribed timelines.

The Chief Minister also referred to his recent review meetings held in the Belagavi and Kalaburagi divisions, stating that the directions issued there should be followed without delay. He appreciated officers who had shown commitment and efficiency while encouraging all departments to work together with a unified approach for the benefit of the state.

Deputy Chief Minister Dr G Parameshwara highlighted the importance of protecting water resources, especially in view of changing agricultural patterns. He pointed out that horticultural cultivation has expanded significantly in recent years and crops such as arecanut require a regular water supply. Even a short interruption in irrigation, he noted, could severely damage plantations and affect farmers’ livelihoods.

He also observed that crops including sugarcane, paddy, arecanut, and maize occupy nearly half of the cultivated area in Karnataka and require substantial amounts of water. District officials were advised to carefully monitor water usage and make balanced decisions while managing demands for irrigation, ensuring that sufficient drinking water remains available until the next monsoon season.

The Deputy Chief Minister directed district administrations to identify villages where people are forced to migrate in search of work. He said employment opportunities under government schemes should be expanded in such areas to reduce migration and help families remain in their villages. He also expressed concern over reports that many children were leaving school because of migration and asked officials to monitor the situation closely.

Officials were further instructed to remain alert to the possibility of disease outbreaks during drought conditions. The government also asked district administrations to ensure there are no shortages of seeds and fertilisers for farmers and to respond quickly with factual clarifications whenever inaccurate information appears in the media.

The meeting also witnessed a moment of displeasure from the Chief Minister when some officials were seen using their mobile phones while the Deputy Chief Minister was addressing the conference. D K Shivakumar reminded participants that government meetings demand full attention and respect, advising anyone with urgent matters to step outside instead of using phones during the discussion.

The review meeting reflects the state’s effort to strengthen drought management through closer coordination between departments, improved field monitoring, and timely action to address challenges related to water, agriculture, public health, and rural livelihoods.