Daijiworld Media Network - Bengaluru (SP)

Bengaluru, Sep 25: State revenue minister, Kagodu Thimmappa, found out that a village accountant and revenue inspector from Koppal taluk had usurped government fund estimated to be around Rs 50 lac, which was to be disbursed through credit to accounts of farmers. This money represents drought relief.

The minister came to know about this incident during his video conferencing with deputy commissioners at Vidhan Soudha on Saturday September 24. When he was reviewing progress in releasing drought relief to farmers, he prima facie found the above fund misuse. He immediately ordered senior officials to conduct investigate and submit report.

Addressing a press conference later, the minister confirmed that he had ordered for inquiry after coming to know about this fraud. He said that drought relief amounting to around Rs 50 to 60 crore had not been distributed to farmers as cheques were returned unpaid for various reasons in Belagavi, Yadgir, and Gulbarga districts. He said he has instructed the officials to take steps to deliver the relief amount to the houses of farmers.

The minister noted that the drought situation this year is alarming, and 60 taluks have been so far identified as drought-hit. He said that the actual number of drought-hit taluks would be announced after the sub-committee of the cabinet meets on September to discuss the matter. On account of drought, orders have been issued not to dig borewells for purposes other than drinking water, he explained.

About shortage of staff in his department, he said steps have been taken to recruit 157 tahsildars through Karnataka Public Service Commission. This process is expected to be completed in three months, he added.