Rain Eases Stress, But Sowing Remains Uncertain in Kadapa
Farmers who transplanted paddy using borewell irrigation said the rainfall had provided some respite
KADAPA: Light to moderate rainfall across several parts of YSR Kadapa district has brought partial relief to farmers who had already sown rain-fed crops. However, the showers remain inadequate for a full agricultural revival, with many cultivators still awaiting sustained rainfall.
According to official data, rain was recorded in 29 of the district's 40 mandals, while 11 mandals received no rainfall. Duvvur recorded the highest rainfall at 53.2 mm, followed by Chakrayapet (30 mm) and Mydukur (26.4 mm).
The district has so far received a cumulative rainfall of around 378 mm, with the latest spell averaging 9.5 mm across the mandals.
Farmers who transplanted paddy using borewell irrigation said the rainfall had provided some respite.
"The rain has helped to an extent, especially for paddy cultivated with borewell irrigation, but it is not enough for other crops," a farmer from the district said.
Farmers said the rainfall was still insufficient for sowing major rain-fed crops such as groundnut, Bengal gram and red gram.
"We need more consistent rainfall to take up groundnut and pulse cultivation. The present showers are not sufficient," said N. Keshava Reddy, a farmer from Chakrayapet mandal.
The district continues to face water stress, with the Papaghni, Cheyyeru and Kundu rivers remaining dry. Depleted tanks have also led to drinking water shortages in several villages.
Agriculture officials said they are closely monitoring the situation and advising farmers to plan cultivation based on weather conditions.
While the recent showers have provided temporary relief, farmers said sustained rainfall is essential to support cultivation during the current season.
