Rs 11,489-crore aid sought from Centre

The state government has sought Rs 11,489 crore central assistance for mitigation and management of drought in the state.

In its revised proposal sent to the union government two-days ago, the state sought Rs 7,672 crore for providing immediate relief and Rs 3,817 crore to initiate measures to cope with droughts in future.

It may be recalled that the empowered group of ministers (EGoM) on drought, headed by Union Agriculture Minister Sharad Pawar, during its recent visit to Karnataka had suggested that the state government modify its proposal for drought relief explaining its short and long term plans. Accordingly the state government had sent fresh proposal.

The EGoM would be meeting on Thursday where it is expected to announce central aid to the state based on its proposal.

In the revised proposal the state government has sought Rs 1,346.54 crore for agriculture sector and Rs 2,381.28 crore for energy sector. The funds sought under power sector, includes Rs 2,293.71 crore it spent on the purchase of power.

The state government has also asked the Centre to share 75 per cent of its crop loan waiver burden which comes up to Rs 2,700 crore.