Rain damages paddy crops in parts of South Goa

Margao: Farmers across various parts of South Goa are grappling with agricultural losses as four days of relentless rainfall destroyed paddy crops that were on the verge of harvest, leaving the farming community in despair.The downpour caused waterlogging in paddy fields throughout the district, making it impossible for farmers to access their ready-to-harvest crops. What should have been a time of reaping rewards turned into a nightmare for agricultural families who now face the prospect of losing their entire seasonal income. “The food that was almost at the farmer's mouth was snatched away," described one local observer. The standing paddy crop, which reached maturity after months of careful cultivation, began sprouting due to excessive moisture, rendering it commercially worthless.The damage extends beyond just the grain harvest. Rice straw, which serves as essential cattle fodder, also rotted in the waterlogged fields, delivering a dual blow for farmers, who also depend on livestock rearing for livelihoods.Farmers TOI spoke to said that the inadequate compensation structure provided by the agriculture department adds to their woes in such times. “The financial relief offered fails to cover even the basic input costs invested in crop production,” said a farmer from Ambaulim, Quepem.

Farmers said the delayed release of water for irrigation of rabi crop forces them to delay land preparation and seedling transplantation until Jan end. This delayed schedule results in crops becoming ready for harvest in May, when pre-monsoon showers pose the greatest threat. “If the WRD supplies water at the beginning of Dec, the paddy crop could be ready by early May,” said a farmer from Uguem, Sanguem.