Kalaburagi Taluks Likely in Second Drought List, Says Minister

Kalaburagi's drought-affected taluks are expected to be included in the state government's second list of drought-hit areas, according to Minor Irrigation Minister Ajay Singh. Speaking to reporters in Kalaburagi city on Saturday, Dr. Singh said the first list was not final and assured that efforts would be made to ensure the district's taluks are covered.

"This is only the first list, and it is not final. We are hopeful that Kalaburagi will be included in the second list," he said. The Minister acknowledged that farmers in the district are facing difficulties due to inadequate rainfall and crop losses.

Dr. Singh said he, along with district in-charge Minister Priyank Kharge and Medical Education Minister Sharan Prakash Patil, would meet Deputy Chief Minister and Revenue Minister G. Parameshwara to press for the inclusion of the district's taluks. He noted that drought declarations follow prescribed criteria and assured that the government would take necessary steps to protect farmers' interests.

On Nagendra's resignation

Responding to questions about former Minister B. Nagendra's resignation, Dr. Singh said Mr. Nagendra stepped down voluntarily to avoid embarrassment to the Congress party, denying any pressure. "Mr. Nagendra, as a loyal Congress leader and an asset to the party, resigned voluntarily so that the party would not be embarrassed," he said.

The Minister accused the BJP of targeting Mr. Nagendra due to a lack of substantive issues against the Congress government. He claimed the government has completed three years with good governance and development work, and that the BJP, unable to digest this, has resorted to targeting Mr. Nagendra. Dr. Singh also criticised the BJP for turning to protest politics ahead of elections, noting the party remained silent for three years. He took a dig at the BJP's state leadership, saying internal differences have prevented it from presenting a united front.