Bengaluru: With drought conditions looming large across Karnataka following a significant rainfall deficit, Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeking the immediate deployment of a central study team to assess the situation and extend assistance for drought management.
In his letter, the Chief Minister said the state has received 30% below-normal rainfall this monsoon, with 18 of the 31 districts recording deficient precipitation. He noted that 141 taluks are facing a rainfall shortage, while only 34% of the kharif sowing has been completed due to inadequate rains.
Shivakumar also highlighted the growing stress on agriculture, drinking water supply and rural livelihoods, pointing out that the state’s 14 major reservoirs currently hold only 34% of their storage capacity.
He said a visit by a central assessment team would enable the Union government to evaluate the ground situation firsthand and reassure farmers that the Centre stands with them during the crisis.
Sharing details of the letter on social media platform X, the Chief Minister said the Karnataka government has already initiated emergency measures, including water conservation initiatives, to mitigate the impact of the dry spell. He added that the state government remains committed to supporting farmers and families affected by the emerging drought situation.
I have written to Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi seeking urgent intervention in view of the emerging drought situation in Karnataka.
The State has recorded a significant monsoon deficit, delayed kharif sowing, low reservoir storage and increasing stress on… pic.twitter.com/C6TG0lFUjI
— DK Shivakumar (@DKShivakumar) July 14, 2026
