Karnataka has reported 2,809 farmer suicides over the past three years, according to data presented by Agriculture Minister N. Chaluvarayaswamy in the Legislative Assembly on December 16, 2025. The figures, disclosed in response to a question from BJP MLA Aravind Bellad, show 1,254 cases in 2023-24, 1,178 in 2024-25, and 377 in the current financial year 2025-26 to date. Year-wise and district-wise breakdowns were annexed to the written reply.

Despite the high numbers placing Karnataka second nationally per National Crime Records Bureau data, the minister highlighted a declining trend compared to previous years, asserting that government interventions are yielding results. He rejected suggestions that welfare schemes have failed, emphasising ongoing efforts to address agrarian distress through financial and support measures.

On compensation, the government has disbursed aid to many affected families, though payments in some cases remain pending due to technical hurdles in Direct Benefit Transfer, including dormant accounts, unlinked Aadhaar, NPCI mapping issues, and frozen accounts. The minister assured resolution upon rectification, noting restrictions on older cases per Finance Department guidelines.

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A recent November 6 order mandates settlement of suicide compensation within nine months of the incident and accidental death or disability claims within six months, aiming to expedite relief. The disclosure underscores persistent challenges in Karnataka's agriculture sector, including debt, crop failure, and climate impacts, amid political scrutiny over rural welfare effectiveness.

As the Assembly session continues, the data has intensified calls for stronger preventive measures and faster aid delivery to mitigate the ongoing crisis affecting farming communities.

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