Drought-like conditions in Yavatmal; soybean and cotton crops affected; farmers seek immediate relief
Yavatmal: Drought-like conditions have emerged in Maharashtra's Yavatmal district, particularly in the Pusad tehsil, due to a lack of rainfall. The rainfall deficit has impacted soybean and cotton crops. According to farmers, crops in many fields have been severely affected. The situation arising as early as September has heightened farmers' concerns; they also fear impending crises regarding water, fodder, and employment.
Farmer Manish Jadhav stated that the financial condition of farmers has weakened due to crop failures over three consecutive years. He noted that the damage to soybean and cotton crops is creating an employment crisis not only for farmers but also for farm laborers. He mentioned that some laborers are migrating to other regions in search of work. Jadhav demanded immediate relief of ₹1 lakh per hectare—without stringent conditions—and the provision of crop insurance benefits for the affected farmers.
Farmer Durgadas Rathod stated that he had spent approximately ₹20,000 to ₹25,000 per acre on soybean cultivation. According to him, the crop damage has made it difficult to even recover the cost of cultivation. He expressed concern regarding household expenses, his children's education, and the arrangement of fodder for livestock. Rathod urged the government to provide compensation to the farmers.
Farmer Sachin Sakhre said that the disruption in farming activities is exacerbating the employment crisis for farm laborers. He noted that some families are moving towards cities and industrial areas in search of jobs.
Meanwhile, farmer Aditya Jadhav demanded that the administration provide immediate relief and take necessary measures for the affected families. The farmers assert that, given the current situation, financial assistance and crop insurance benefits are essential, rather than mere assurances.
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