Unseasonal Rain Wreaks Havoc: Crops Damaged Across Maharashtra, Farmers Demand Immediate Relief

The unseasonal rains lashing Maharashtra from March to May have brought severe hardship for farmers, with extensive crop losses reported across several districts. According to preliminary data, approximately 1,56,055 acres (62,422 hectares) of agricultural land in seven districts—Nashik, Ahmednagar, Solapur, Amravati, Buldhana, Jalna, and Chandrapur—has been affected, leaving nearly one lakh farmers financially devastated.

Farmers are in a state of distress, repeatedly asking, “When will the Panchnamas (official damage assessments) be completed?” With their crops destroyed and livelihoods threatened, many express frustration, saying, “The crops are gone, the money is gone, and now we are left waiting endlessly for the Panchnamas.”

Orchards Suffer the Worst Blow

Among the worst-hit are orchards of banana, mango, pomegranate, and grapes, which have suffered extensive damage. Additionally, major crops such as maize, wheat, jowar, onion, groundnut, and vegetables have also been severely affected. In Solapur district alone, 3,700 hectares of crops have been reported damaged, with the Pandharpur, Mohol, North Solapur, Sangola, and Mangalwedha talukas being the worst hit.

Over the past 15 days, nearly 49,228 hectares of crop area across seven districts have been affected. In April alone, an additional 13,194 hectares in 16 districts experienced crop loss. Earlier, between April and May 2024, the state had already recorded damage to 1.18 lakh hectares, reflecting the growing impact of climate volatility on agriculture.

State Response and Uncertainty Over Compensation

The Maharashtra state government has sought a detailed report on the damage. As per the government resolution dated January 1, 2024, compensation is promised to affected farmers. However, without timely completion of Panchnamas, the disbursement of aid remains uncertain.

Farmer organizations and local leaders are now urging the state government to instruct the Revenue Department to carry out immediate damage assessments. Delay in official verification may further jeopardize the future of lakhs of farmers, already reeling from repeated climate shocks.