Large Landowners in Bathinda Step Up to Support Small Farmers After Devastating Hailstorm
In a heartening display of solidarity, farmers with substantial landholdings in the Bathinda region are taking significant steps to alleviate the hardships faced by small and marginal farmers whose crops were severely damaged by a powerful storm on April 4. Many of these landowners have announced they will waive half of the lease payments for their land, while others have committed to providing free green fodder, offering crucial relief during this challenging period.
Village of Kothe Sandhua Leads the Way in Generosity
Kothe Sandhua village, situated near the Bathinda-Muktsar road, has emerged as a hub of such benevolent actions. Farmers including Gardaur Singh, Sukhmandar Singh, Darshan Singh, and Dhola Ram have collectively waived half the lease payments for their lands, which span 30, 7, and 4 acres. Gardaur Singh recounted how a single 35-minute hailstorm on April 4 drastically altered the agricultural landscape. Prior to the storm, farmers were anticipating a high yield that would have sufficiently supported their households, but the combination of hail, high-velocity winds, and relentless rain shattered those hopes.
"Under such circumstances, it is the duty of those who can afford it to stand by those in distress," Gardaur Singh emphasized. "I have waived half the lease for the wheat season and encouraged others to do the same. Three more farmers from my village have already joined me, and we expect more to follow," he added. Annual lease payments for the two main seasons, rabi and kharif, typically range between Rs 70,000 and Rs 90,000, depending on factors like soil quality and access to tubewells.
Widespread Support Across Villages in the Region
The spirit of assistance extends beyond Kothe Sandhua. Farmer Kulwant Singh from Lakhewali village in Muktsar expressed a similar sentiment, stating, "When fellow villagers are in distress, we must stand by them. This is what our bani (teachings) tell us." Kulwant Singh has waived the lease on his 6-acre plot. Similarly, Iqbal Singh from Bhalaiana village has waived a portion of the lease on his 14 acres, while Kulwinder Singh from Kothe Kaur Singh village has offered his combine harvester—complete with diesel—to help affected neighbors harvest whatever remains of their crops.
Extent of Crop Damage Across Multiple Districts
The wheat crop across several districts, including Muktsar, Fazilka, Bathinda, Mansa, Barnala, Sangrur, and Amritsar, has been significantly impacted by the recent wave of severe weather. This widespread damage has prompted a collective response from the farming community, highlighting the importance of mutual aid in times of crisis.
These initiatives not only provide immediate financial relief but also foster a sense of community resilience, ensuring that small farmers can recover and prepare for future seasons without being overwhelmed by debt.
