`1,250-cr aid by K’taka for those hit by lockdown

Bengaluru, May 19: As Karnataka is battling the second wave of the pandemic, Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa on Wednesday announced a over `1,250 crore financial package, to provide relief for those whose livelihood has been affected by Covid-19 induced lockdown.

He also said a decision will be taken on extending the current lockdown, a day ahead of it coming to an end on May 24.

“Our government had given financial packages to various sectors during the Covid first wave.

Despite that, as the current restrictions have affected the livelihood of those in unorganised sector and farmers, to mitigate its impact, we are announcing a relief programme of over `1,250 crore,” Yediyurappa said.

Speaking to reporters here, he said the government was announcing the package despite the state facing financial constraints, and is standing by the people, during this difficult time.

“We have done the best we can, within the current financial limitations, and will consider if anything needs to be done in the future,” he said in response to a question.

The state government had initially announced 14 days “close down” from April 27, but subsequently imposed a total lockdown from May 10 to 24, as cases continued to spike. With the current lockdown ending early next week, several leaders have expressed themselves in favour of extending it, to control the spread of Covid.

The CM said the relief amount will be deposited in the accounts of the beneficiaries, and honest efforts will be made to ensure that the money reaches them immediately. “I have given instructions to disburse the amount immediately, and there is no shortage of funds for this.” he said.

Yediyurappa on Wednesday held a meeting with senior ministers of his cabinet and officials, ahead of announcing the package at a press conference.

Listing the details of the relief package, the Chief Minister said `10,000 relief will be given to flower growers for per hectare loss. It will benefit about 20,000 farmers and may cost `12.73 crore.

For the losses suffered by fruit and vegetable growers, `10,000 per hectare financial relief will be given, limiting it to one hectare, he said.

This will benefit about 69,000 farmers and may cost `69 crore. A sum of `3,000 each relief will be given to auto, taxi and maxi cab drivers who have licence and have registered, benefiting 2.10 lakh beneficiaries.