Mon Apr 14 04:55:03 UTC 2025: **Hailstorms Devastate Karnataka Crops, Minister Promises Aid**

KALABURAGI, Karnataka – April 14, 2025 – Recent hailstorms have caused significant damage to agricultural lands in Koppal district, Karnataka, affecting over 12,700 hectares of paddy crops. The hardest hit area is Karatagi taluk, where nearly 5,000 hectares suffered damage.

Kannada and Culture Minister Shivaraj Tangadagi, who is also in charge of Koppal, visited the affected regions on April 13th to assess the situation. He stated that the hailstorm, accompanied by heavy rain and strong winds, caused widespread destruction, particularly impacting 12 villages in Karatagi taluk.

Minister Tangadagi announced that affected farmers will receive compensation of ₹17,000 per acre, in accordance with Union Government norms. He and fellow ministers have already raised the issue with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Revenue Minister Krishna Byre Gowda, and a special cabinet meeting is scheduled for April 17th to further discuss the matter. A crop damage survey report will be submitted before then.

While addressing concerns about the Tungabhadra dam gates, the Minister clarified that its management falls under a separate Union Government board. He assured that Karnataka is prepared to contribute its share of funds as needed.

Finally, Minister Tangadagi confirmed that an investigation is underway into alleged irregularities by the Karnataka Rural Development and Infrastructure Corporation Limited (KRDCL) in Koppal, with a case already registered. He stated that action will be taken against those found guilty.

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