Aland farmers demand drought declaration following severe rainfall deficit

Farmers and political leaders in Aland taluk are demanding that the region be officially declared drought-stricken following a severe monsoon failure. Reports indicate a rainfall deficit of approximately 80 percent, causing major crops such as pigeon pea, green gram, urad dal, and soybean to wither.

Protestors, led by farmer organizations and the BJP, held demonstrations and a foot march from Khajuri to Aland town. They have submitted memorandums to the state government through local officials, requesting immediate relief. Key demands include the declaration of drought status, the release of pending second-phase crop insurance payments, and compensation of 25,000 rupees per acre.

Critics have also accused local administration and revenue officials of failing to conduct accurate joint crop surveys, leading to Aland being excluded from official drought lists. Additionally, farmers are calling for the settlement of outstanding sugarcane incentive payments and support for livestock, which is facing fodder and water shortages.