Farmers in the Deesa region of Gujarat are facing a tough time. This year, unexpected rains have devastated their groundnut crops. The summer groundnut was ruined by early rains, and the monsoon crop suffered due to continuous rainfall. As a result, farmers have incurred losses estimated at over ₹60 crore. In the Deesa market yard, the revenue from groundnuts has dropped by more than 3 lakh sacks compared to last year.
Last year, during the summer season, over 8 lakh sacks of groundnuts were recorded in the market yard. This year, only 4.75 lakh sacks have arrived. This is a decrease of 3.5 lakh sacks, clearly indicating that the rains have prevented farmers from harvesting their crops. Most of the groundnuts in the fields have spoiled. Currently, the groundnuts coming into the market yard are also affected by rain, appearing wet and blackened. The prices range from ₹700 to ₹1015 per quintal, which does not offer any relief to the farmers. With two consecutive failed harvests, the situation for farmers has become dire. They are pleading for the government to listen to their grievances.
Farmers have expressed their pain. Due to the early rains, they could not harvest their summer groundnuts. Not only have they lost their crop, but the lack of fodder has made it difficult to feed their livestock. For the past month, they have been requesting the government for surveys and assistance, but their concerns have not been taken seriously. Elected representatives seem unable to help, leading farmers to express their distress.
Farmers have challenged the government to check the market yard data for themselves. They believe that the statistics will clearly show why the income has decreased and how much damage the groundnut crop has sustained. Amrut Joshi, the secretary of the Deesa market yard, confirmed that there has been a significant drop in revenue compared to last year, primarily due to the damage caused by the early rains.
With the situation worsening, farmers are once again urging the government to conduct surveys and provide immediate support. They feel abandoned and helpless, and their calls for assistance are becoming more urgent. The current weather patterns pose a significant risk to agriculture in the region, leading to further uncertainty for farmers in the months ahead.
As the rains continue to disrupt agricultural activities, the hope for recovery seems distant. Farmers are left wondering about their future and the viability of their livelihood. The government is being called upon to act swiftly to mitigate the impact of these weather-related challenges. Only time will tell if their cries for help will be met with action.