Erratic Monsoon Leaves Uttar Pradesh Farmers Anxious Over Crop Yield

The monsoon season in Uttar Pradesh has ended, leaving many farmers worried about their Kharif crop yields due to uneven rainfall distribution. Data shows significant rainfall deficits in several districts. Climate scientists attribute this to a weaker monsoon influenced by western disturbances. Farmers are struggling with stunted crop growth and cultivation challenges.

The monsoon season in Uttar Pradesh officially ends this month, but uneven rainfall distribution has left the state's farmers worried about their Kharif crops' yields.

More than half of the state's districts received below-normal rainfall since June. Of Uttar Pradesh's 75 districts, 37 have experienced deficient rainfall, while seven saw excess rains, and 31 received normal rainfall, according to India Meteorological Department (IMD) data.

Regions like western Uttar Pradesh, Rohilkhand, and central areas have been most affected by the erratic monsoon.

In Shamli, west Uttar Pradesh, where paddy farming is common, farmers like Muqeem Khan face severe challenges from inadequate rainfall, recording only 20.2% of the usual amount. "We cannot grow paddy without sufficient rain," lamented Khan.

Other districts, including Gautam Buddh Nagar and Amroha, also reported significant rainfall deficits.

Amroha farmer Nakul Pal shared that due to the lack of rain, he had to use tube wells for irrigation, but this method is not financially sustainable.

Climate scientist Sumit Singh Vyas cited a weaker southeastern monsoon and western disturbances as reasons for this imbalance, leading to unpredictable rain patterns that worsen the farmers' plight.

BJP MLA Baldev Singh Aulakh promised government support for the affected farmers, acknowledging the substantial challenges arisen from the atypical monsoon season.

Data indicates Uttar Pradesh has received just 88.5% of its normal rainfall so far, with seven districts witnessing excess rainfall.

(With inputs from agencies.)