SANGUEM
A prolonged dry spell has raised concern among paddy farmers in parts of Sanguem and Quepem, with cultivators closely watching the condition of their fields as the paddy crop enters a crucial stage.
Receding water levels
Farmers said the absence of rain has resulted in water levels receding in several paddy fields, while the soil in some areas has begun to dry up. The situation is particularly worrying for crops that still require adequate moisture for proper grain development.
“The fields had sufficient water earlier, but after several days without rain, the water level has gone down considerably. If the dry spell continues, the crop may come under stress at a very important stage,” said farmer Jose Gama from Uguem, Sanguem.
Farmers said the impact varies depending on the stage of the crop and the availability of water in individual fields.
While mature paddy may benefit from relatively dry conditions for harvesting, crops that are still filling out the grains could be adversely affected by prolonged moisture deficiency.
Concern over grain formation
“A few days of dry weather is helpful when the paddy is ready for harvesting, but this dry spell is becoming a concern for fields where the crop is still developing. We need some moisture to ensure proper grain formation,” said Vishal Naik from Netravali, Sanguem.
In Quepem, farmers said the drying of field channels and declining water levels could become a serious issue if the dry conditions persist.
“We are hoping for a spell of rain soon. The crop looks healthy in many places, but the fields need moisture. If the dry weather continues for several more days, farmers with no alternative source of water could face difficulties,” a Quepem farmer said.
Rain hoped for
At the same time, farmers with mature crops said the dry spell had provided favourable conditions for harvesting and drying, provided the weather remained stable. “For those who are ready to harvest, the dry weather is actually useful. But for the remaining fields, especially where the grains are still developing, some rain would be welcome,” said Jose Gama.
Farmers said the next few days would be crucial in determining the impact of the dry spell on the season’s paddy crop. They hoped for moderate rainfall sufficient to restore moisture in the fields without causing damage to mature crops awaiting harvest.
