Karnataka announces another Rs 2,500 drought aid for farmers

Bengaluru: The Karnataka government has announced an additional Rs 2,500 in drought compensation for farmers, doubling the previously announced interim assistance to Rs 5,000 per beneficiary.

Chief Minister D K Shivakumar announced the first phase of the relief distribution on Wednesday, November 4, while launching it at Vidhana Soudha. The first instalment of Rs 2,500 was initiated through DBT transfers to the bank accounts of farmers in Yadgir district.

Remaining Rs 2,500 to be credited after Diwali

The government has set aside Rs 1,250 crore for the first phase of the payment. The remaining Rs 2,500 will be credited after Diwali, taking the total assistance to Rs 5,000 for each eligible farmer.

Explaining the decision at a press conference, Shivakumar said the government was proceeding with the promised financial assistance and ensuring that the money reached beneficiaries directly without intermediaries.

“We are providing Rs 2,500 as the first instalment. The money is being transferred directly to farmers’ accounts through DBT. After Diwali, we will release another Rs 2,500,” he said.

Upper limit of Rs 5,000 per farmer

The compensation has been fixed at Rs 2,500 per acre, with an upper limit of Rs 5,000 per farmer. Therefore, farmers owning more than two acres will not receive any additional amount beyond the stipulated ceiling.

The maximum assistance will remain Rs 5,000 regardless of the total agricultural landholding of an individual farmer. The amount will be released in two equal instalments.

The decision is expected to offer some financial relief to farmers who have suffered losses due to drought conditions. The government has positioned the additional payment as support to the farming community during the festive season.

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