Nizamabad: Delay in monsoons is adversely affecting agricultural operations in the current Kharif season. There has been no rainfall in undivided Nizamabad district in the last fortnight. According to the Meteorological Department, both Nizamabad and Kamareddy districts have been facing large deficit of rainfall ranging from 60 per cent to 99 per cent.
Last year composite Nizamabad had received normal rainfall. The farmers are now worrying about the Kharif season in the district. Usually, farmers pick up farm operations in the first week of June itself. But, now the situation is completely different as no rainfall has been reported so far.
In Armoor division, farmers had already sown turmeric, but because of lack of water, the seeds have been damaged. The farmers are in shock as they have incurred losses at the initial stage of sowing crops itself. It is a common phenomenon that the farmers will cultivate paddy in the Kharif season and switch to ID crops in Rabi season.
Speaking to Deccan Chronicle, Mr M. Prathap Reddy, a farmer said that they have been experiencing Rabi like situation in Kharif season. Usually, Rabi season witnesses lack of rainfall and farmers cultivate ID crops, he said. Delayed monsoon will definitely affect production and supply to the market, he explained.
On the other hand, farmers have begun traditional rituals in villages hoping for good rainfall. Farmers in groups have been conducting various rituals, praying to the frogs, which, according to them, will fetch good rainfall. Special pujas are being conducted in temples seeking the blessings of the Rain God Varuna.
The Agriculture Department officials are preparing alternative plans if the dry spell continues in the present Kharif season. The Agriculture Department higher-ups are reviewing the situation to guide the distressed farmers in Nizamabad district.
