Unseasonal rain, hailstorm has devastated farmers: Raman Suri

JAMMU: Raman Suri, Executive Member of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has expressed serious concern over the extensive damage caused to farmers across Jammu division due to continuous unseasonal rain, strong winds, and hailstorms over the past several days. He said the adverse weather conditions have severely impacted standing crops, fruits, and vegetables in several areas, leaving farmers in deep financial distress.

Suri stated that regions including Vijaypur, Miran Sahib, RS Pura, Arnia, Marh, Suchetgarh, Sohanjana, and other border belts have witnessed heavy losses as wheat crops ready for harvest have been flattened in the fields. In many places, wheat grains have started turning black because of excessive moisture, raising fears over both the quality and quantity of production. With harvesting season approaching, this damage has dealt a major blow to farmers who were expecting returns after months of hard work.

He said this is not merely crop damage but a direct attack on the livelihood, hopes, and year-long efforts of farming families. At a time when farmers are already battling rising input costs, unpredictable weather patterns, and market uncertainties, such natural calamities have added to their burden.

Raman Suri urged the government to immediately conduct a special survey of the affected areas through agriculture and revenue department teams, assess the actual extent of losses, and provide prompt compensation to wheat growers, fruit cultivators, and vegetable farmers. He also called for speedy settlement of crop insurance claims and the announcement of a special relief package for small and marginal farmers. Additionally, he stressed the need for better agricultural advisories and technical support to help farmers cope with future climate-related challenges.

He further highlighted that strawberry growers have also suffered substantial losses. Waterlogging in the fields has caused the fruit to rot, while the remaining crop is now under threat of fungal infection. Vegetable farmers are equally affected, as crops like okra have collapsed in the fields due to persistent rain. Despite repeated sowing, seeds are failing to germinate properly. The cultivation of spinach and other green vegetables has also been badly disrupted.

Raman Suri also pointed out that mango orchards have not been spared. Continuous rainfall and gusty winds have blackened mango blossoms, creating fears of reduced production in the coming season. He emphasized that farmers cannot be left alone during this difficult period and said the government must respond with urgency and sensitivity to restore their confidence and support them in preparing for the next cultivation cycle.