A severe southwest monsoon deficit has left rain-fed agriculture in Vijayanagara district facing one of its toughest seasons in recent years. With rainfall significantly below normal, maize cultivation across Kudligi taluk has suffered extensive damage, particularly in villages such as Sasalwad. Farmers who invested heavily in quality seeds, fertilizers, labour, and land preparation watched their crops fail as prolonged dry spells and inadequate soil moisture prevented healthy plant growth.
The lack of consistent rainfall disrupted germination and crop development, causing maize plants to wither before reaching the reproductive stage. Unable to recover any meaningful harvest, several farmers made the difficult decision to allow sheep to graze on their dried fields, converting the failed crop into fodder instead of bearing additional harvesting expenses. The heartbreaking scenes have become symbolic of the growing challenges faced by rain-fed farmers across the district.
Agricultural experts warn that continued rainfall shortages could affect food production, household incomes, and the local rural economy. Farmer organizations have urged the government to conduct immediate crop-loss assessments, release drought relief packages, and provide timely financial assistance to affected cultivators. They are also advocating for better irrigation infrastructure, watershed development, and the promotion of drought-resistant crop varieties to reduce dependence on uncertain monsoon rains.
Officials continue to monitor rainfall patterns while assessing the extent of crop losses. The current situation highlights the urgent need for climate-resilient agricultural practices and stronger support mechanisms to protect farming communities from increasingly unpredictable weather conditions.
