Unseasonal Rain, Hailstorm Damage Rabi Crops In Several States; Farmers Seek Compensation

Last Updated:April 04, 2026, 10:20 IST

Rabi crops are sown between October and December and harvested in the spring months of March and April.

Unseasonal rain and hailstorms have damaged rabi crops across several states, with farmers expressing distress over losses and urging governments to conduct timely assessments and provide compensation.

In Jhajjar, Haryana, a farmer said most of his crop had been destroyed due to the sudden weather conditions. He further demanded an appropriate compensation from the government.

“My almost entire crop has been damaged, apart from the 10–20% that might be left. There will be a lot of problems in the sale of this crop. We demand from the government that a timely survey of this damage is carried out and appropriate compensation is given on time," he said.

Similar concerns were raised by farmers in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, where unseasonal rain and hailstorms affected standing rabi crops. A farmer, Satyam, said wheat, mustard, pigeon pea (arhar) and some quantity of gram had been damaged due to the rainfall.

“For us farmers, everything depends on farming. Our household expenses include preparation for the next paddy sowing, ploughing and purchasing fertilisers like DAP in advance. We often have to buy these ahead of time because when the season arrives, there is usually a shortage of DAP and urea," he said.

Satyam added that farming sustains families and covers daily needs such as weddings, children’s clothing, school fees and uniforms.

Earlier, Rajasthan CM Bhajanlal Sharma directed all district collectors to survey crop damage from unseasonal rain and hail and submit their reports.

According a statement, the chief minister said that the pain of farmers is the pain of his government. All affected farmers will be provided adequate assistance, he added.

Meanwhile, Maharashtra Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule said on Thursday that the state government will compensate farmers affected by widespread crop damage due to unseasonal rains.

Speaking to the media, he said, “Directions have been given to carry out spot inspections without delay, and compensation will be provided to affected farmers thereafter."

The minister’s assurance comes as demands grow for quicker damage assessments and timely relief measures.

What Are Rabi Crops?

Rabi crops are crops that are sown in winter and harvested in spring in India. These crops are sown between October and December and harvested in the spring months of March and April.

Major rabi crops grown in India include wheat, mustard, barley, gram (chana), lentils (masoor), peas and pigeon pea (arhar). These crops typically require cool weather for growth and are an important part of India’s agricultural production, particularly in northern states.

(With inputs from agencies)

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