Rain deficit wilts black-eyed bean crop; Minister inspects fields

Cheluvarayaswamy interacts with farmers, gathers information on the condition of the crop, moisture deficiency and the likely impact on yield

Minister N. Cheluvarayaswamy on Sunday inspected black-eyed bean crops affected by deficient rainfall in Sindhaghatta and Tendekere villages of K.R. Pet taluk in Mandya district.

The Minister visited the fields and inspected the wilted plants. He interacted with farmers and gathered information on the condition of the crop, moisture deficiency and the likely impact on yield.

Speaking to reporters, Mr. Cheluvarayaswamy said the deficient southwest monsoon had resulted in the drying up of sugarcane and some other crops in parts of the district. He said he was visiting different parts of the district to assess the drought situation.

He said he had already visited areas around Mandya to assess the situation and would visit Nagamangala taluk on Monday to review the crop condition and the problems faced by farmers due to the rainfall deficit.

Officials would be instructed to collect comprehensive information on the drought situation, prepare a detailed report on the measures to be taken and submit it to the district administration, he said.

The rainfall situation would be reviewed over the next week and, depending on the conditions, farmers would be provided guidance and support to take up short-duration and alternative crops, the Minister said.

Stressing the need for scientific guidance, he said agricultural scientists should be deployed to educate farmers on suitable crops during the pre-monsoon and monsoon periods, particularly those suited to low-rainfall conditions. Farmers should also be provided guidance on crop selection, sowing time and appropriate farming practices based on prevailing weather conditions, he said.

The Minister directed officials to create awareness among farmers about enrolling under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY). He also instructed Agriculture Department officials and staff to ensure that no eligible farmer was left out of the crop insurance scheme.

Crop insurance plays an important role in providing financial security to farmers in the event of crop losses caused by rainfall deficit and other natural calamities, he said, urging farmers to make maximum use of the scheme.

Deputy Commissioner Kumar, Zilla Panchayat Chief Executive Officer K.R. Nandini and Agriculture Department officials were present.