Karnataka is facing a drought of a magnitude not seen in nearly 150 years, with the state receiving 530mm of rainfall against a normal 816mm this monsoon, a deficit of 35%. Of 240 taluks, 217 face rainfall deficiency. Deputy Chief Minister and Revenue Minister G Parameshwara told the assembly that this year’s crisis is worse than the 2023 drought, which was described as the worst in 124 years. He said that since 1875, when the British established the meteorological department, the 2023 drought was described as the worst in 124 years. By the end of September 2023, rainfall was 25% below normal. This year, the rainfall deficiency was 42% in June, 29% in July and 23% in August, before widening to 58% up to September 24. The state has estimated a loss of Rs 40,000 crore and is seeking Rs 3,705 crore in aid.