More taluks to be included in drought-hit list: Dist in-charge secy

In-charge Secretary of Mysuru district A R Kamble on Thursday said more taluks in the district may be declared drought-hit.

Presiding over a meeting held at the Deputy Commissioner’s office to review the progress in drought-relief works, Kamble said, the district is facing drought following deficient rain. H D Kote taluk has already been declared drought-hit, the remaining taluks are expected to be included in the list (of drought-hit taluks). 

“The officials of both Agriculture and Revenue Departments should tour the area jointly and inspect the situation related to crop loss and submit a report. The officials should speed up drought relief works and complete them at the earliest,” Kamble said.

Kamble directed the officials to create awareness among the people about the hike in relief amount from Rs 1.5 lakh to Rs 4 lakh, as declared by the Union government for the families of the victims during a natural calamity.

‘Ensure the farmers’
“The officials should ensure that the farmers who are reeling under crisis are provided labour under Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) and also take extensive publicity measures in this regard. No such farmers should migrate to cities,” said Kamble.

The Veterinary and Animal Husbandry Department should ensure adequate feed for the livestock.The officials should create awareness among the farmers that no compensation would be paid in the event of loss of commercial crops. Such farmers should avail crop insurance facility, he said.

‘Act responsibly’
Kamble directed the officials to act responsibly, by understanding the gravity of the situation, as the government is taking all possible measures to address the situation.

The officials should remain in the headquarters to facilitate the works, he suggested. Deputy Commissioner C Shikha said it is imperative for the officials to take local legislators and other elected representatives into confidence before taking up any works. Preference should be given to works related to drinking water.

The Revenue Department is the nodal department for drought-related works and the officials from other departments should work in coordination, she added.