Farmers in Punjab are demanding immediate action from state authorities following significant crop damage caused by recent heavy rainfall across the region. The Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee has formally requested a fresh survey to accurately assess the destruction to agricultural lands and ensure proper compensation for affected cultivators.
Widespread Agricultural Damage
Heavy rainfall between September 23 and 26 has left extensive damage to standing crops throughout Punjab, with farmers reporting substantial losses to cotton, paddy, and other seasonal cultivations. The agricultural community asserts that the initial assessment conducted by government officials fails to capture the true extent of the devastation.
Sarwan Singh Pandher, the general secretary of Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee, emphasized the urgent need for a comprehensive reevaluation. "The current survey grossly underestimates the actual damage," Pandher stated, highlighting the discrepancy between official figures and ground reality.
Compensation Demands and Government Response
The farmers' organization has put forth specific demands, seeking compensation of ₹1 lakh per acre for crop losses alongside complete debt relief for affected agriculturalists. This call for financial support comes as many farming families face economic hardship due to the unexpected natural calamity.
According to Pandher, the committee has communicated their concerns directly to Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, urging immediate intervention. "We have written to the Chief Minister requesting his personal attention to this critical situation," he confirmed, indicating the severity of the agricultural crisis.
Broader Implications for Punjab Agriculture
The crop damage comes at a crucial period in the agricultural calendar, potentially affecting food production and economic stability for thousands of farming families across Punjab. The timing coincides with important growth stages for multiple crops, amplifying the impact of the weather-related damage.
Farmers have expressed frustration with what they perceive as inadequate response measures from authorities. Many argue that without accurate assessment and appropriate compensation, the agricultural community in Punjab could face long-term consequences that might affect future planting seasons and food security in the region.
The Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee has indicated they will continue to press for a thorough survey and adequate relief measures until farmers receive the support necessary to recover from their losses and prepare for upcoming cultivation cycles.
