K'taka to provide free power to irrigation pumps

"Power subsidy, including free power to IP sets up to 10 HP, will rise to Rs 2,050 crore per annum," Chief Minister B S Yeddyurappa said, presenting the revised budget for 2008-09 in the Assembly.     

Yeddyurappa, who also holds the finance portfolio, said 50 lakh small and marginal farmers who are totally dependent on dryland farming would get a one-time benefit of Rs 1,000 per family to buy seeds, fertilisers and other inputs.    

Milk producers would get an incentive of Rs 2 per litre, he said, adding that Rs 500 crore has been allocated for an agriculture revolving fund.    

Yeddyurappa said an agriculture commission would be formed under the leadership of the chief minister. A special commission to promote organic farming would be set up and also establish a bio-fuel task force.    

Other highlights related to agriculture include a comprehensive scheme to restore traditional tanks and ponds, and a programme to protect the source of rivers.