Karnataka faces ₹46,000 crore crop losses as drought hits 217 taluks
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Cropping patterns & irrigation· Prelims + Mains·
Monsoon variability and agrarian distress: a key GS3 topic on climate resilience and disaster management.
Why in news
The Government of Karnataka submitted two memoranda to the Centre seeking assistance after a severe drought hit 217 taluks, causing estimated crop losses of ₹46,000 crore.
Background
Karnataka received 551 mm of rainfall during the southwest monsoon (SWM), a 35% shortage from the 852 mm normal. The state reported losses of ₹18,748.23 crore on standing crops across 19.52 lakh hectares.
Facts for Prelims
- FactKarnataka received 551 mm of rainfall during the southwest monsoon in 2026, a 35% deficit from the 852 mm normal.
- FactSWM accounts for approximately 74% of Karnataka's calendar year rainfall, while the northeast monsoon (NEM) accounts for 16%.
- PlaceKarnataka is the second most drought-prone state in India after Rajasthan, with 80% of its geographical area prone to drought.
- FactCumulative rainfall deficit during SWM: 41% for South Interior Karnataka, 42% for North Interior Karnataka, 38% for Malnad, and 28% for coastal region.
Prelims practice question
With reference to the rainfall patterns in Karnataka, consider the following statements:
- The southwest monsoon received 551 mm of rainfall, representing a 35% deficit from the normal.
- Karnataka is the most drought-prone state in India, with 80% of its geographical area affected.
- The southwest monsoon accounts for approximately 74% of the calendar year rainfall in the state.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a)3 only
- (b)1 and 3 only
- (c)2 and 3 only
- (d)1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (b) 1 and 3 only — Statements 1 and 3 are correct. Statement 2 is incorrect: Karnataka is the second most drought-prone state after Rajasthan.
For Mains
Q. Analyze the impact of monsoon variability on the agrarian economy of semi-arid regions like Karnataka and suggest measures for climate-resilient agriculture.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Monsoon dependency: High reliance on SWM (74%) creates extreme vulnerability compared to states with dual-monsoon systems.
- Regional disparity: Significant rainfall deficits in interior regions (41-42%) vs coastal regions (28%) complicate uniform relief distribution.
- Economic shock: Massive crop losses (₹46,000 crore) highlight the need for robust crop insurance and drought-resistant seed varieties.
Keywords: monsoon variability · climate-resilient agriculture · agrarian distress · drought-prone regions · rainfall deficit
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This note is generated automatically from SatyaDheesh's news feed and mapped to the UPSC CSE syllabus. Check facts against the original report or PIB before using them in an answer.