Belagavi (Karnataka), July 1 (IANS) Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister, G. Parameshwara, on Wednesday said, “If there is no rainfall in the coming days, the situation could become difficult. The government has already prepared a plan of action, which will be implemented by the respective Deputy Commissioners.” He announced that Rs 5 crore has been earmarked for each district to ensure uninterrupted drinking water supply.

Addressing a press conference in Belagavi, Parameshwara said the state government will review the problems being faced in the Belagavi region, particularly due to deficient rainfall this year, and take appropriate measures to address drinking water shortages and the impact of crop losses on people.

“Therefore, we will discuss precautionary measures and issue necessary directions to ensure adequate drinking water supply,” Parameshwara said.

Responding to a question on declaring drought, Parameshwara said there are established criteria for declaring a taluk or district drought-hit.

“The decision is based on factors such as rainfall deficiency, crop loss, and water availability. There has been no discussion on declaring drought so far. We are also not currently considering cloud seeding. A decision will be taken depending on the situation,” he clarified.

He further said that whenever such situations arise, the state government brings them to the notice of the Centre.

“We do not want to politicise the issue. However, the Centre has not even released 10 per cent of the relief sought in the report we submitted,” the Deputy Chief Minister said, expressing disappointment over what he described as the Centre’s lack of cooperation.

He said drought-like conditions are emerging in Belagavi district, increasing the likelihood of drinking water scarcity. Rainfall during June has been below normal, resulting in a decline in groundwater levels.

Referring to the Revenue Department, he said initiatives such as Pouthi Khata, distribution of title deeds, Akar Bandh, and declaration of revenue villages have been progressing successfully over the past three years. The government has now decided to expedite these works and complete them within a stipulated timeframe.

Speaking about the Religious Endowments Department, he said encroachments have been identified on the properties of Category A, B, and C temples. District authorities have been instructed to conduct surveys and clear the encroachments.

“We have also directed officials to ensure that devotees do not face inconvenience in obtaining darshan, receiving prasadam, or availing accommodation at temples. Funds received by temples must be spent only after obtaining approval from the competent authority. We will not allow unnecessary expenditure under any circumstances. Strict action will be taken, and standard operating procedures and regulations will be formulated,” he said.

On sports, the Deputy Chief Minister said the government will accord greater priority to the sector. Schools and colleges at the district level with inadequate sports infrastructure will receive additional support to promote sports activities.

“We will extend all necessary assistance to sportspersons. A 3 per cent reservation will be provided for sportspersons in Home Department recruitments and a 2 per cent reservation in recruitments to other government departments,” he said.

–IANS

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