Unseasonal Rainfall Wreaks Havoc on Rajasthan's Rabi Crops
Unseasonal rainfall, accompanied by strong winds and sporadic hailstorms, has inflicted widespread damage to Rabi crops across Rajasthan, leaving farmers grappling with heavy losses. Key crops such as wheat, barley, cumin, and isabgol have been severely affected in several districts, including Sikar, Jhunjhunu, Alwar, Bhilwara, Ajmer, Jaisalmer, and Barmer.
Government Response and Insurance Assurance
In response to the crisis, the state agriculture department has assured that crop losses will be covered under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY), offering much-needed relief to affected farmers. Officials clarified that insurance coverage applies not only to standing crops but also to harvested crops left in fields to dry for up to 14 days after harvest under the scheme.
Taking cognizance of the situation, Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma directed all district collectors to conduct immediate girdawari (crop damage assessment) and submit reports at the earliest. He emphasized, "The pain of farmers is our pain. The prosperity of Rajasthan rests on our annadata brothers and sisters."
Farmers' Plight and Ground Reports
Ground reports from western Rajasthan paint a grim picture. In the canal areas of Ramgarh and Mohangarh in Jaisalmer, rain accompanied by strong winds reaching speeds of 40–50 kmph damaged standing crops. Isabgol and cumin crops have been among the worst hit, with many farmers reporting near-total losses.
Bhawani Singh, a farmer from Jaisalmer district's Ramgarh area, lamented that both his isabgol and cumin crops were almost completely destroyed by the unseasonal rain. He stated, "The cooler weather of the last few days has brought some relief from the heat, but it has increased our troubles. The damage to crops has created a serious livelihood crisis for farmers; the government should provide immediate relief."
Lale Khan, another farmer with crops in both Chandhan and Mohangarh areas of Jaisalmer, reported that heavy rains ruined his standing isabgol crops, while harvested cumin kept to dry in fields turned black due to excess moisture, making it unfit for sale. Similar damage was reported by farmers across Chandhan and adjoining areas of the district.
How to Avail Crop Insurance Benefits
To avail crop insurance benefits, farmers must report crop damage within 72 hours. Claims can be filed through:
- The Agriculture Rakshak portal
- The helpline number 14447
- By contacting the appropriate insurance company, bank, or nearby agriculture office
This proactive measure aims to streamline the relief process and ensure timely support for the agricultural community in Rajasthan.
