THE GOAN NETWORK
VALPOI
Paddy cultivation in Sattari taluka has been severely affected due to a prolonged absence of rain for nearly one-and-a-half months. Paddy crops in several areas have started drying up, raising concerns over crop growth and production.
Following directions from the agriculture department, the Sattari Zonal Agriculture Office (ZAO) began a survey of paddy fields across Sattari to assess the extent of the damage.
According to preliminary observations by agriculture department officials, around 90% of the paddy cultivation area in Sattari has been adversely affected due to the lack of rainfall. However, the exact extent of the damage will become clear only after the survey is completed.
Over the years, the area under paddy cultivation in Sattari has gradually declined due to rising cultivation costs, shortage of labour, crop-related uncertainties, wildlife-related problems and changing livelihood patterns.
Despite this decline, farmers in several parts of Sattari continue to depend on monsoon paddy cultivation. This year, cultivation initially progressed satisfactorily, but the prolonged dry spell has created serious difficulties for farmers.
Due to the prolonged gap in rainfall, soil moisture has declined in several fields and paddy plants have started drying up. In some areas, the crops are reportedly severely affected.
Farmers fear that the prolonged dry spell could lead to a significant reduction in paddy production. While some fields remain in relatively better condition, several others are facing serious water shortages.
Paddy farmers from different parts of Sattari have demanded that the government immediately assess the losses and provide compensation to eligible farmers as per the applicable norms.
Farmers have also sought measures such as improved irrigation facilities, alternative water sources and appropriate agricultural guidance to protect crops during prolonged dry spells in the future.
The Sattari ZAO has begun a survey of paddy fields from Monday following government directions. Officials are conducting field inspections to assess the affected area, condition of the crops and extent of damage caused by the lack of rainfall.
Officials said that a detailed report would be submitted to the government after completion of the survey.
“The ongoing survey is expected to be completed within the next two days. The actual extent of affected farmland and crop damage will be known after the survey report is prepared,” said an official.
“Although the preliminary assessment indicates that nearly 90% of the paddy cultivation has been affected, the official extent of the damage will be clear only after the completion of the survey.”
