Gujarat farm sector’s dilemma

The delay in rain has put a question mark over the survival of sugarcane, paddy, vegetable and cash crops in South Gujarat. Experts believe that within the next ten days if the region does not get sufficient rain, many crops under cultivation in lakhs of acres of land will be destroyed.

In many talukas of the region, crops have already begun to wither for lack of water. Monsoon was scheduled to set in on June 15 in Gujarat, but so far the showers have not come. South Gujarat region, which receives ample amount of rain, has seen nominal showers in the month of June. The delay has send jitters down the spine of farmers and if monsoon gets stretched it can result in crop failure, say those in know of the situation. At present sugarcane and paddy - two prime cultivations are at stake, for want of water.

The situation is similar for farmers engaged in cultivation of vegetables, pulses and other cash crops.  "So far we were getting water twice in a week from canals, but now the irrigation department releases water once in fortnight. Crops are at the growing stage and they need ample water, but there is no provision," said Dhiru Patel, a farmer who grows paddy in Gadat village of Navsari. He said the village has five wells but its water cannot be used for farming as it is used for drinking purpose.

Patel said that 35% cultivation is on the verge of getting destroyed, and the rest too will follow if there is not enough rain in the next days.

While a few showers have been reported here and there, most of the talukas are yet to get adequate rains. But others said that tribal pockets have received rains this season and it may help save the cultivation. "Growth in crop has fallen due to lack of proper water supply. This will directly affect the quality and quantity of produce. Even if the crop is saved, farmers will not get much by way of profit.