Climate change is a reality and so is the fact that Karnataka is one of the most drought-prone states of India. Over 70% of the state’s geographical area falls under dry and semi-arid zones. The state’s crop production is critically dependent on monsoon rains as nearly 85 lakh hectares of land comes under rainfed agriculture and this is the second highest landmass after the desert state of Rajasthan.
Mid-July figures indicate that Karnataka faces 30% rainfall deficit due to El Nino and 18 districts report rainfall deficit. The state has reported low reservoir storage resulting in increased stress on drinking water needs and rural livelihoods.
This kind of a scenario calls for urgent, sustained as well as innovative approach because it a has bearing on social economic conditions of the state’s population.
Karnataka’s diverse socio-economic conditions pose a challenge to policy makers. One.