Yadagiri: Farmers in areas near the Bhima and Krishna rivers are facing severe challenges in harvesting their paddy crops due to a combination of rising rental costs for harvesting machinery and plummeting paddy prices, leading to significant financial stress.
Farmers from villages such as Konkal, Gondenoor, Chennur, Tumkur, Hayyal, Bendebembli, Godihal, Kumanur, and others have grown paddy in their fields this season. However, the rental cost for harvesting machinery has sharply increased, with the hourly rate rising from ₹1,800 last year to ₹2,200-₹2,300 per hour this year. This surge in costs has become an unbearable financial burden for many farmers, especially as their income from the harvest is already under pressure.
The price of paddy has also fallen, exacerbating the situation. Last year, farmers received ₹1,850 to ₹2,200 per quintal for their paddy. However, this year, the price has dropped to ₹1,650 to ₹1,750 per quintal for wet paddy, adding to the financial strain.
In light of these challenges, farmers are urging district officials to intervene. They are requesting a reduction in the rental rates for harvesting machines and the opening of procurement centres to help them secure better prices for their produce. Without such support, farmers fear they will struggle to cover their costs and sustain their livelihoods.
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