Nature, in its capricious ways, has cast a shadow over the southern state of Karnataka, where the pulse crops, notably moong, and Pigeon peas, bear the brunt of an unrelenting drought and untimely rains. The scene evolves with an ominous air as moong crop harvesting preparations begin in September. What unfolds is a story of stark contrast, with production plummeting by a staggering 80 percent compared to the previous year. The Pigeon peas crop, not to be outdone, finds itself in a perilous state, expecting a 60 percent dip in yield.
As experts set their sights on the upcoming Rabi season, it becomes evident that the drought’s grip extends to chickpea crops, foreshadowing a notable decline. On a national scale, moong production now stands at a meager 14.50 million tonnes, pales compared to the estimated consumption of 17.45 million tonnes. In Kalaburagi district in Karnataka, the narrative takes a dire twist. Here, a cruel dance of nature’s elements has unfolded, with excess rains in June and July followed by a relentless drought. The result? A devastating blow to the moong, urad, and Pigeon peas crops, most of which lie in ruin.
According to the Agriculture Department’s data, the Pigeon peas sowing area in Kalaburagi district, spanning 595,240 hectares, bore the brunt of the drought’s onslaught, with 195,000 hectares, equivalent to 32.75 percent of the area, succumbing to the harsh conditions. The plight of urad is equally grim, with 29.16 percent of the 20,000 hectares yielding a crop in shambles. However, the true extent of the damage far exceeds official figures.
Producers contend that the Agriculture Department has gravely underestimated the destruction. According to farmer organizations, Kalaburagi district has witnessed the obliteration of at least 80 percent of the moong crop.
Delving into the meteorological records further unravels the tale of woe. In June, Kalaburagi district grappled with rainfall 43 percent below the average. July, in contrast, delivered an overwhelming deluge, surpassing the norm by 93 percent. August, devoid of the replenishing rains, presented a grim picture with 82 percent less rainfall.
September, while somewhat kinder, recorded a 10 percent increase above the normal average. October, however, took a cue from its dry predecessor, showering an 83 percent deficit.
The repercussions of this climatic rollercoaster have left the pulse crops reeling, with production suffering colossal losses. As the experts assess the consequences, the stark truth is that importers must brace for a sharp decline in the supply of these essential pulses. The situation is dire, and the road to recovery is fraught with challenges.