In Kalaburagi district, the grim reality of farming hardships has intensified, with around six farmers reportedly dying by suicide within a month. A combination of tur crop failure, crippling debts, and insufficient support systems has pushed many cultivators into despair.

Kalaburagi, famously known as the land of tur dal, witnessed promising monsoon rains, prompting farmers to sow tur across nearly 6.3 lakh hectares. However, their hopes were shattered when untimely heavy rabi rains wiped out about 50% of the crop. Adding to the agony, the persistent outbreak of dry root rot disease impacted around 1.8 lakh hectares—roughly 5 lakh acres—resulting in an estimated 30% loss of yield.

Already burdened with mounting loans, farmers saw their financial troubles worsen as market prices for tur dipped sharply. Minimal earnings have left them unable to meet loan repayments, leading some to take tragic steps.

While political leaders continue to urge youth to take up farming, their statements seem hollow amidst the current crisis. For months, farmer organisations have been staging protests and road blockades, demanding compensation and policy intervention. A recent three-day agitation outside the Deputy Commissioner’s office in Kalaburagi went unanswered.

Farmer leader Sharanbasappa Mamashetty criticised the government’s apathy, accusing officials of ignoring the worsening plight of farmers. The district, once believed to thrive on tur cultivation, now paints a grim picture, witnessing suicides almost weekly.