Agriculture Minister Advises Farmers Against Hasty Sowing After First Rain
Maharashtra Monsoon Update: Preparations for the Kharif season have intensified with the onset of the monsoon in the state. Amidst this, Agriculture Minister Dattatray Bharne has advised farmers not to rush into sowing immediately after the first rainfall. He emphasized that sowing should commence only after ensuring sufficient soil moisture and consistent rainfall; this ensures better crop germination and minimizes the risk of crop loss.
Addressing the Legislative Assembly, the Minister noted that the monsoon has become active across several parts of Maharashtra, with good rainfall expected in the coming days. He pointed out that farmers often sow hastily after the initial showers, but if the rain stops subsequently, the seeds may spoil, necessitating re-sowing. Therefore, farmers should sow their crops only after accurately assessing soil moisture and weather conditions.
The state government is also remaining vigilant regarding the potential impact of El Niño. The Agriculture Department is providing weather-based advisories to farmers in collaboration with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), the India Meteorological Department (IMD), agricultural universities, and Krishi Vigyan Kendras (Agricultural Science Centres). Additionally, efforts are being made to promote water management and climate-resilient farming practices.
The Agriculture Minister stated that relief amounting to approximately ₹20,000 crore has been provided to farmers affected by excessive rainfall last year. Meanwhile, ₹1,523 crore in compensation has already been distributed under the crop insurance scheme, and the process for disbursing the remaining amount is underway.
The government has also made a significant announcement for cotton-growing farmers. A 'Cotton Productivity Mission' will be implemented from the 2026-27 to 2030-31 period, aiming to boost production and farmers' income by promoting improved seeds, modern technology, and scientific farming methods.
The Minister further informed that adequate stocks of fertilizers and seeds are available for the Kharif season, and strict action is being taken across the state against the sale of spurious agricultural inputs.
