In spite of the delayed onset of Monsoon in the state, pre-monsoon Vayu cyclone had brought statewide rains, which lured farmers for early sowing.
Near three weeks of incessant rains in the state have probably proved to be a boon for sowing if the latest report by state agriculture department is considered. The Kharif (monsoon season) sowing stands at over 71.34 lakh hectare or over 84 per cent of average Kharif acreage of about 85 lakh hectare.
In spite of the delayed onset of Monsoon in the state, pre-monsoon Vayu cyclone had brought statewide rains, which lured farmers for early sowing.
While it rained in late June, there was a huge break in between and the state didn’t receive heavy rains till the end of July’s third week, putting a big question mark over whether the sowing will survive or not.
Many talukas in Saurashtra and north Gujarat had not received rains for about five weeks in succession. However, rains towards the end of July revived the hopes and it has been raining in the state on an almost continuous basis.
South Gujarat, which is considered to be heavy rainfall area, recei ved above-average rains. While the state has received 717 mm rains or almost 88 per cent of the seasonal average rains of 816 mm, south Gujarat recorded 1,474 mm or 103 per cent of its average of 1,418 mm rains.
“Both rains and sowing is very good in the region. Sowing of paddy is going on in full swing. Water is flown into (Ukai dam) canal as well, so remote areas will also get water for irrigation,” said Jayesh Patel, president of Khedut Samaj – Gujarat.
According to the state agriculture department report, the state had recorded sowing over 71,34,941 hectare till August 13, a shade lower compared to 72,28,583 hectare during the corresponding period in the previous year.
Even though the situation has improved a lot in Saurashtra, the most important region for agriculture, farmers feel that it is important to create structures that could preserve rainwater for alternate use of it.
“We have received heavy rains but the water drains into the sea.We need a few spells of rains at a regular interval or else the crop will be destroyed,” said Chetan Gadhiya, a district president of Rajkot for Khedut Samaj – Gujarat.
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