Although the region has been experiencing a similar quantity of rainfall in previous years as well, this year saw an exceptionally good distribution with barely a day passing without some area receiving rain showers.

This has also led to the present kharif crop, which is to be harvested from the end of October onwards, being in very good shape. In terms of the kharif crop, the region is well known for its high production of sugarcane and paddy. The rains this year have ensured that there was no need for the farmers to irrigate their fields. “The soil was saturated and there was no water stress. The farmers did not have to spend on electricity and labour to irrigate their fields,” said Dr Sharma.

He further pointed out that the continuing cloud cover in the month of October might lead to some damage to the paddy crop in certain places due to blast fungus, but the problem can be curbed if farmers monitor their crops carefully and spray fungicide after the Western Disturbance moves away. He suggested that the sprays may only be resorted to if the disease is exceeding the economic threshold value of the crop.

Total Rainfall

2007

June 225 mm

July 715 mm

August 735 mm

Sept 325mm

2008

June 593.8 mm

July 773.8 mm

August 711.9 mm

Sept 161 mm