Subsidised govt seeds delay hits ‘garma’ crop sowing

Buxar: Harvesting of Rabi crops in the district is almost complete. Farmers are now ready to use their vacant fields to sow ‘garma’ crops such as moong (green gram), urad (black gram), and hybrid maize.

These crops not only provide an additional harvest but also improve soil fertility when used as green manure.However, farmers’ plans are facing a setback this year. The ideal sowing period is passing, but subsidised seeds from the state govt have not yet reached the district. As a result, farmers are being forced to buy seeds from the open market at high prices.According to sources in the district agriculture department, 6,894 farmers have applied online for ‘garma’ crop seeds.

The department had set a target to distribute 60 quintals of hybrid maize, 185 quintals of urad, and 640 quintals of moong seeds at subsidised rates. But so far, no seeds have been made available in the district. This delay is raising concerns about reduced crop production due to missed sowing timelines.Farmers said they have been waiting for the subsidised seeds, but still the district has not received any supply. Many have already purchased seeds from the market at higher rates, increasing their cultivation costs.

They believe timely distribution would have reduced expenses and improved yield.District agriculture officer Dharmendra Kumar said the process of procuring and supplying seeds is underway. He confirmed that seeds have not arrived yet in the district, but assured that their distribution will begin as soon as they are available.Ramkewal, plant protection apecialist at Krishi Vigyan Kendra, said the ideal sowing period for Garma crops is Feb and March, with a deadline of the first week of April. Any delay beyond this reduces yield significantly, especially in moong and urad, as high temperatures during flowering affect pod formation.