Severe rain deficit threatens Rabi planting in Karnataka's Kalyana region

The Kalyana Karnataka region faces a bleak Rabi outlook as rainfall deficits have climbed to 65% over the last fortnight, and forecasts show no imminent rain. Out of the 2 lakh hectares slated for Rabi sowing, merely 15-20% has been cultivated so far. Officials warn that farmers must base crop choices on water supplies from the Tungabhadra reservoir canals.

While seeds and fertilizers are being distributed, the district recorded only 0.2 mm of rain against a normal 65.5 mm during the first two weeks of October, a critical sowing period. The monsoon failure also left a 51% deficit for the Kharif season, with 284.9 mm received versus the usual 576.1 mm. Agriculture department joint directors Prakash Chavan and Samad Patel highlighted the urgent challenges confronting growers.