Bangalore, Nov 17: Karnataka government today decided to sanction Rs 22 crore as compensation for crop losses suffered by farmers in Mandya district last year on account of non-release of water for irrigation. A decision to this effect was taken at a meeting convened by Chief Minister S M Krishna which was attended by farmers' leaders, including former MP G Madegowda and Karnataka Rajya Raitha Sangha president K S Puttannaiah and others.

Minister for primary and secondary education B K Chandrashekhar, also in-charge of Mandya district, told reporters after the meeting that a government order for payment of compensation would be issued today.

Asked whether the government would consider similar requests from other district farmers, he said the issue was not discussed.
Madegowda said he was satisfied with the outcome of the meeting and the quantum of compensation being paid by the government.

The official committee, headed by revenue commissioner Vinay Kumar which submitted a report on the extent of crop loss, had indicated that the farmers had invested Rs 58 crore on various crops that were destroyed for want of water.

Madegowda said "something is better than nothing. The government should also have resources. Currently the financial position is not favourable to sanction more assistance".
Farmers' associations in Mandya district were earlier demanding Rs 141 crore as compensation.

Bureau Report