Weak Monsoon Triggers Crop Losses and Migration Crisis Among Farmers in Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh
By jayesh chouhan 2026-07-28 12:40:18
Farmers in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh Face Crisis Due to Weak Monsoon
Kalaburagi/Jogulamba Gadwal: A weak monsoon and a lack of rainfall have compounded the difficulties faced by farmers in the Kalyana Karnataka region and parts of Andhra Pradesh. Crops dependent on rainfall—such as soybeans, pulses, and cotton—are withering due to the absence of rain. With agricultural employment opportunities dwindling, farmers and farm laborers are being forced to migrate to cities like Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Pune.
Farmers in the Kalaburagi, Ballari, Yadgir, and Raichur districts of Kalyana Karnataka are still awaiting good rainfall. In many areas, the soil in the fields has dried up, and crops are failing. In some places, seeds failed to germinate, while in areas where plants did sprout, they have become weak and are drying up due to a lack of soil moisture.
Water shortages in ponds and reservoirs have further exacerbated the farmers' plight. With insufficient water available for irrigation, many farmers are facing the crisis of having to sow their crops all over again.
According to farmers' organizations, migration this time is not limited to farm laborers alone; small and medium-scale farmers are also leaving their villages in search of employment in cities due to agricultural losses. Many families are settling in other cities while making arrangements for their children's education.
Madhav Reddy, President of the Karnataka Rajya Raitha Sangha-Hasiru Sene, stated that both farmers and farm laborers have been affected by the lack of rain. He urged the government to declare the affected areas drought-hit and provide relief to the farmers.
Sharanabasappa Mamashetti, the Kalaburagi District President of the Karnataka Pranta Raitha Sangha, noted that farmers' crops have been completely destroyed in many areas. He demanded that the government provide free seeds and fertilizers, as many farmers are unable to afford replanting after suffering such heavy losses.
Meanwhile, in Undavalli village of Andhra Pradesh's Jogulamba Gadwal district, a farmer named Razak used a tractor to clear away 10 acres of cotton crops that had been ruined by the lack of rain. He had sown cotton on leased land a month ago, but the lack of rainfall stunted the plants' growth. According to the farmer, he has suffered a loss of approximately ₹1.50 lakh.
The weak monsoon has created a severe financial crisis for farmers in both states. Farmers' organizations are demanding drought relief, assistance with seeds and fertilizers, and immediate measures for the affected farmers from the government.
