JD(S) demands drought status for Dharwad district in Karnataka

The Janata Dal (Secular) has intensified pressure on Karnataka's government to include Dharwad district in the state's drought-hit list, citing deteriorating agricultural conditions and acute water shortage across the region. Party leaders have argued that the district meets the criteria for drought declaration due to widespread crop failures and depleting water resources affecting thousands of farmers.

The demand comes as several parts of Karnataka continue to grapple with below-average monsoon rainfall and prolonged dry conditions. Dharwad, a significant agricultural district in the state's northern region, has reportedly experienced insufficient precipitation this season, threatening both kharif and rabi crop cycles.

Official drought recognition would enable the district to access various relief measures and financial assistance packages provided by the state and central governments to affected farming communities. Such designation typically helps farmers through loan waivers, insurance claims, and subsidized agricultural inputs.

The JD(S) has urged the state administration to conduct a comprehensive assessment of drought conditions in Dharwad and expedite the process of formal declaration. The party's push reflects growing concerns among opposition parties regarding the government's response to agricultural distress in the region.