Bengaluru: The government of Karnataka sought Rs.16,662 crores as compensation from the Union government for loss suffered due to the drought that hit parts of the state this monsoon season. In a report submitted to the Centre, the state informed that 100 taluks of the 24 districts in the state are facing a drought.

According to the sources in the state revenue department, revenue minister R V Deshpande will meet with senior officials of the Union agriculture ministry on Monday and seek compensation under the NDRF.

As per estimations, this year, sowing was completed in 89% of the sowing areas, but 41% of the crop was damaged due to the drought. “Tanker water is already being supplied to 159 villages. 203 private borewells have been taken into possession to supply water. 53% of lakes across the state have less water compared to the normal level,” informed authorities.

“Fodder is only available for the cattle for next 16 weeks. So we want the Union government to release the NDRF funds at the earliest,” the sources added.