MAPUSA
The uneven rain has become a cause for concern over its impact on crop output in Bardez.
The farm output, which looked promising in June, face a serious weather threat as rainfall has suddenly dipped in July and continues to do so in August, even as high temperature is depriving crops of vital moisture both in the soil and air.
"If current situation continues for another week, it is bound to be a cause for serious concern. So far, the little rainfall that we get is satisfactory for low-lying areas, but it's grave for areas under cultivation in highlands," said Anant Hoble, Zonal Agriculture Officer, Mapusa.
An area of around 5,225 hectares has been brought under paddy cultivation in Bardez this year, while another 19 hectares has been utilized for vegetable farming.
According to the ZAO, rice cultivation has been very good in areas of Saligao, Sangolda, Pilerne, Socorro and Salvador-do-Mundo, while areas like Aldona, Corjuem, Pirna, Revora, Nadora, Camurlim, Assagao, Nerul and Siolim have also done well.
Farmers from Aldona, Corjuem, Moira, Nachinola, Revora, Nadora and some parts of Siolim have also focused on cultivating vegetables.
This year, the monsoon had started on a weak note but gained some momentum mid-June which boosted crop planting. It dipped somewhat in July and continues to be a cause of worry in August.
Further, there is no quick relief in sight as the weather office does not expect the monsoon to strengthen in the days ahead.
"Rains will continue to be moderate or scattered in the days ahead since there is no good system building up," said M L Sahu, director, India Meteorological Department, Panaji. Further, rising temperature was also a big concern for farmers.
"For the paddy crop, the slight drizzle is quite sufficient for the moment. What is more worrisome is the heat. Increase in temperature could lead to growth of pest which could affect the crop," said Sakaram Nagvenkar, a farmer from Corjuem.
According to Vithal Naik, president of Nachinola Farmer's Club, the scarcity of rain coupled with heat has already had an impact on vegetable crop.
"Most lady fingers have become stunted in size. Paucity of rain and rise in temperature have affected the crop of lady fingers in our area," Naik said.
