Distribute crop loss relief to farmers: MP Basavaraj Bommai writes to CM Siddaramaiah

Bengaluru:
Former Chief Minister and Member of Parliament Basavaraj Bommai saif that due to heavy rains over the past two years, a large number of crops have been destroyed, and there have been errors in the crop loss survey. These discrepancies be corrected immediately across the state and compensation be provided to all affected farmers without delay.

In a letter addressed to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, he said, “it is known to everyone that heavy rains over the past two years have damaged most of the crops in the state. Farmers have suffered losses consecutively for two years, and crops like maize, soybean, green gram, and onion have been destroyed. There was no compensation awarded last year for crops lost due to rain. Recently, you submitted a plea to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which we all have noticed. However, I wish to bring certain facts to your attention.”

He noted “The crop loss assessment survey has not been carried out properly and fairly. Officials from the Agriculture, Revenue, and Statistical Departments have submitted reports without conducting comprehensive inspections in farmers’ fields. As a result, reports from several taluks absurdly state that less than 10% of sown crops were damaged. This is far from the truth. In some taluks, reports even claim that there was no crop loss at all, which is completely false. For instance, in Mundaragi taluk of Gadag district, heavy crop losses occurred, but the report states otherwise. These discrepancies must be corrected immediately across the state, and all affected farmers must receive compensation without delay”.

Open maize procurement centers

He further pointed out: “Maize has been cultivated in about 17 lakh hectares across Karnataka. Last year, production stood at 54 lakh metric tonnes, and a similar yield is expected this year. However, the price of maize has drastically fallen this year to ₹1,600 per quintal, causing shock to farmers. The Central Government has already declared an MSP of ₹2,400. Farmers are demanding that the State Government provide at least an additional ₹500 per quintal.”

He reminded, “Earlier too, without waiting for the directions of the Central Government, the State Government procured maize and later sold it when market prices improved, thereby preventing losses. A similar decision can be taken now as the crop is not damaged. Later, a report can be sent to the Centre. Therefore, I request that a prompt decision be made and suitable directions issued for procurement.”

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