Karnataka Seeks Urgent Action on Agri Issues, Flood Compensation from Centre
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Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday to push for immediate action on several long-standing issues affecting the state. A memorandum was submitted to the Centre, highlighting the need for swift approvals on water-related projects, including the Samatholana Barrage Project and the Bhadra Upper Canal Project. The state is seeking ₹5,300 crore for the Bhadra project, which was previously allocated in the Union Budget. Additionally, Karnataka is requesting ₹2,136 crore under the National Disaster Response Fund to cover damages caused by this year's monsoon, affecting 1.9 million farmers and causing widespread destruction. Siddaramaiah also raised concerns about delays in central allocations under the Jal Jeevan Mission, with Karnataka yet to receive its share of ₹13,004 crore by the end of 2025-2026. The state is seeking a revision of the minimum support price for sugar, which is currently at ₹31 per kilogram, and an increase in ethanol procurement from distilleries in Karnataka. Furthermore, the state reiterates its demand for an AIIMS in Raichur, citing the region's lag in health services, education, and income levels. The memorandum emphasizes that Karnataka has already submitted the required project report and secured necessary land, connectivity, and administrative support for the medical institute. The meeting comes as Karnataka continues to grapple with the aftermath of the monsoon, and the state's leaders are pushing for urgent action from the Centre to address these pressing issues.
