HAVERI:
Relentless rainfall in Dundashi hobli has caused extensive damage to cowpea and other crops, leaving farmers in distress. Over the past week, the area has received 262.0 mm of rainfall—30 percent above the average monsoon figure of 201.8 mm recorded in June 2025.
The continuous downpour has triggered the spread of copper disease and red spot in cowpea crops, causing them to turn reddish-yellow. Similarly, maize, groundnut, and soybean crops, which have been sown over 90 percent of the land, are showing signs of damage at different growth stages.
“Every year, I invest Rs 35,000 to 40,000 per acre, but I fail to get a return. I’m mentally exhausted,” said Keshappa, a local farmer. Another farmer, Iranna, expressed disappointment over the absence of MLAs or officials visiting affected fields.
Farmers have warned of a taluk-level protest if the government does not provide compensation of at least Rs 10,000 per acre for crop loss.
Assistant Director of Agriculture, Shiggavi, Kotresha Gezli advised that spraying water-soluble fertilizers like 19:19:19, potash 0:0:50, or 13:0:45—at 1.5 grams per litre—on the leaves can help the cowpea crop recover.
With crop failure repeating for the second consecutive year, mounting debt and poor returns have pushed farmers into a state of despair. Many are unable to repay their loans or manage interest payments, further worsening their financial condition.