Belagavi
Farmers are facing significant losses this season due to poor-quality potato seeds and excessive rainfall. Potatoes were grown on 1,100 hectares this season, with around 400 acres cultivated in Kadoli village. Farmers have reported that the poor quality of seeds has severely impacted their yields.
The current year’s good monsoon rains had raised hopes for higher profits. However, the substandard seeds have led to the deterioration of crops in the fields. Upset by the situation, farmers have uprooted their potato crops and are calling for action against those responsible for distributing the poor seeds.
Potatoes from Kadoli and surrounding villages are typically supplied to major markets, including Delhi and Agra. Farmers, who are now facing losses, have expressed their frustration.
Farmer leader Appasaheb Desai criticized the quality of seeds provided by private traders and called for immediate inspection by horticultural scientists and officials. He urged the government to take appropriate action.
Farmer Gajanan Kaganikar shared his hardship, explaining that despite investing around Rs 1 lakh on fertilizers and treatments for his two acres of land, the potato crop failed. He had anticipated an income of Rs 2.5 lakh but now faces total loss. Kaganikar is seeking compensation and assistance.
