Unseasonal Rain and Hailstorms Damage Rabi Crops, Agriculture Minister Orders Swift Assessment
Government Directs States to Assess Crop Losses Amid Adverse Weather
New Delhi, March 20: Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Friday reviewed the damage caused by unseasonal rainfall and hailstorms to standing rabi crops, including wheat, and directed officials to work closely with state governments to ensure an accurate assessment of losses.Chairing a comprehensive review of the country’s agricultural situation, the minister noted that the adverse weather conditions have affected multiple states at a critical stage when crops were ripe and ready for harvest.
Hailstorms and Rainfall Impact Standing Crops
Highlighting the severity of the situation, Chouhan said that several regions experienced not only rainfall but also hailstorms, which led to significant damage to crops.He stated that excessive rainfall and hailstorms often result in lodging, where crops flatten on the ground, making harvesting difficult and affecting yields.
Focus on Scientific Assessment for Insurance Claims
The minister instructed officials to immediately coordinate with state governments to identify the specific areas impacted by the weather events.He also emphasized the importance of accurate and scientific assessment of crop damage, particularly under the Crop Insurance Scheme. Officials have been directed to ensure that crop-cutting experiments are conducted properly so that farmers’ losses are measured precisely.
“If a farmer has suffered losses, the damage must be assessed accurately and scientifically so that insurance claims can be processed effectively,” Chouhan said.
Advisory Issued as More Weather Disturbances Expected
Chouhan further noted that while state governments provide assistance through their respective State Disaster Response Funds, additional vigilance is required in the coming days.According to the India Meteorological Department, two more Western Disturbances are expected. In response, officials have been asked to remain alert and issue timely advisories to farmers to minimize further losses.
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