Loss of rainfall impacts maize, ragi crops in Shivamogga
Farmers in the Shivamogga district of Karnataka are facing severe crop losses due to a 38% rainfall deficit during the monsoon season. Maize and ragi growers report that high input costs combined with failed harvests have left them with no expected returns.
Why it matters
Agricultural distress caused by climate-related rainfall variability threatens the livelihoods of smallholder farmers and regional food security.
A weak monsoon and a sharp rainfall deficit have left farmers in Shivamogga, which is known for heavy rainfall, deeply worried this year. Growers of maize and ragi are the worst-affected. Plant growth and grain formation have not been normal, and they expect little or nothing from their fields.
“It has been more than a month since we last saw rain,” said Haleshappa, sipping tea with fellow farmers at a hotel in Kumsi near Ayanur in Shivamogga taluk. The drought is the main topic of conversation wherever people gather in the taluk. “Yes, we did anticipate drought this time. But the impact is beyond our expectation. We are not getting even a small portion of what we have spent so far.”
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