Severe drought followed by heavy rains caused crop damage worth Rs 500 crore in Kerala between March and June. The loss incurred this month has not been calculated yet. Compensation for last year remains pending, with the government still owing approximately Rs 40 crore, including crop insurance. The agriculture department plans to distribute Rs 6.2 crore to the farmers soon.
This year, drought alone caused crop damage worth Rs 304.11 crore, while summer rains and subsequent monsoons led to additional damage worth Rs 200 crore. The deadline to apply for monsoon crop damage compensation has been extended to the end of this month, after which a clear estimate will be available. The government will then officially announce the amount for this year and seek central assistance. Farmers are concerned about potential delays in compensation, especially since three-quarters of them started farming by taking loans.
The districts of Thiruvananthapuram, Alappuzha, Idukki, Kannur, Kozhikode, Thrissur, Palakkad, and Wayanad were heavily affected by the heavy rain. Alappuzha alone lost Rs 155.5 crore in paddy cultivation. Idukki, the worst drought-hit region, incurred losses worth Rs 156.65 crore. Nearby districts Palakkad, Alappuzha, Malappuram, and Kottayam also faced significant damage. Farmers growing bananas, vegetables, cardamom, and pepper were among the hardest hit.
Crop Destruction Overview:
Heat wave: 46,587 hectares
Heavy rainfall: 3,125 hectares
Rain-affected farmers: 56,479
Drought-affected farmers: 6,479
Loss due to drought: Rs 304.11 crore
Loss due to rain: Rs 200 crore
