All 31 districts in Karnataka experienced excess rain in May, boosting the spirits of farmers for the upcoming monsoon season. The state received an average of 127 mm of rainfall in the first 27 days of May, significantly above normal levels. The surge in rain has helped the state recover from drought-like conditions following disappointing pre-monsoon periods in March and April.
Agricultural activities pick up pace in southern Karnataka and Malnad regions as farmers start sowing with expectations of a good monsoon season. Recent heavy rain brings relief to farmers. IMD forecasts normal monsoon for the state. Excess rain recorded in all districts of the region in the last seven days. Farmers back to fields after failed monsoons in 2023. No shortage of seeds, pesticides, or fertilizers reported. Increasing inflow to dams provides significant relief to farmers.
The agriculture department's vigilance cell has detected chemical traces in supposedly organic fertilisers, raising concerns about the integrity of the organic farming industry. Cases have been registered when chemical levels exceeding 1 part per million (PPM) are found in bio pesticides and organic fertilisers. Farmers are urged to exercise caution when purchasing these products to avoid substandard or counterfeit items. Over the past five years, numerous cases of fake/sub-standard seeds, fertilisers, and pesticides have been reported in the state, leading to the suspension and cancellation of licenses of traders involved in such activities.
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Water level continues to plummet in major reservoirs in the Cauvery basin in Karnataka leading to concerns about the supply of drinking water. Karnataka State Natural Disaster Monitoring Centre (KSNDMC) reports a significant decrease in water levels at KRS dam. The current water level is at 81ft, well below the maximum level of 124.8ft. With only 11.2 TMC of water available out of a gross capacity of 49.4 TMC, the situation is alarming. Over 977 gram panchayats across the state are facing drinking water problems, leading to the deployment of private borewells and tankers for water supply. Experts express concerns over the lack of favorable rain systems and predict a delayed onset of rain in south Karnataka. The severity of the drought is compared to the situation in 1991, with villages and farmers suffering from acute water scarcity and crop losses.