Kalaburagi, renowned for its bumper Togari (pigeon pea) crops, faces a severe crisis as diseases like Macrophomina phaseolina (dry root rot) and Phytophthora (blight) have devastated crops across millions of hectares. Farmers, who initially anticipated a bountiful harvest, are now grappling with massive losses.
This year, approximately 2 lakh hectares out of 6.06 lakh hectares of pigeon pea cultivation in the district are estimated to be affected. The diseases, combined with a moisture shortage during the seed-setting stage, have left crops withering in taluks like Aland, Afzalpur, and Kamalapur. Excessive rains earlier delayed flowering by 20-25 days, worsening the situation.
Farmers are urging the government for immediate intervention. Sharambasappa Mammashetti, President of the State Farmers’ Union, has called for joint surveys, swift insurance claim processing, and a special relief package for affected farmers.
Agricultural experts suggest irrigation and targeted treatments to mitigate the damage. Authorities have initiated inspections, with the Joint Director of Agriculture confirming significant damage due to the diseases. A detailed assessment is expected following ongoing surveys.
Farmers are hopeful for timely action to address this agricultural calamity.
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