The Punjab government is urged by Ashwani Sharma, the working BJP President, to promptly provide Rs 50,000 per acre as compensation to farmers for losses due to unseasonal rains, hailstorms, and strong winds in the state. Sharma highlighted that over 1.30 lakh acres of crops have already been damaged, with the potential for further increase upon proper crop assessment. He emphasized the urgent need for support as farmers are struggling with financial burdens exacerbated by consecutive crop failures.
Agriculture Minister Gurmeet Singh Khudian has requested the Central government to dispatch a high-level team to evaluate the extensive damage inflicted by unseasonal heavy rainfall and hailstorms on wheat and other Rabi crops in Punjab. The minister expressed concern over the significant impact of adverse weather conditions on wheat crops, leading to distress among farmers. Reports indicate crop losses on over 1.30 lakh acres, with ongoing rain posing a threat of further escalation across various districts.
Khudian emphasized that the repercussions of crop losses extend beyond wheat to include vegetables, fodder, and other Rabi crops in districts like Fazilka, Ferozepur, Muktsar Sahib, Bathinda, Amritsar, Moga, and Mansa. The livelihoods of farmers and the state’s agrarian economy are under severe threat due to the widespread damage, necessitating immediate attention and support to mitigate the crisis.
