Now Reading: Paddy growers split over Bhadra water release timing
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Paddy growers split over Bhadra water release timing
Paddy growers in Davangere district are divided over the best time to cultivate on about 63,800 hectares. Over 43,000 farmers want to plant in November or summer, while around 20,000 prefer the monsoon season. The Agriculture Department says even if water is released from Bhadra Dam now, yield could drop by 20% because seedlings take over a month to raise, and winter may reduce output further.
Joint Director Ziaullah Khan said releasing water now would not benefit most farmers, as it takes 10 days to reach tail-end areas, delaying the crop. He advised saving water for summer. Farmer Dhananjay B G said many skipped monsoon paddy due to uncertain water in July and are now considering ragi or millets instead. Market prices for paddy are around Rs 3,700 per quintal.
Indian Opinion Analysis
The standoff reflects a recurring tension in the Bhadra command area: the dam's storage is often low after a weak southwest monsoon, forcing farmers to choose between a risky kharif crop and waiting for rabi or summer. Delayed sowing in November risks lower yields due to colder nights and shorter days. If the water saved for summer also fails, farmers may face a double loss. The Agriculture Department's advice to hold back water carries weight but political pressure from farmer groups backing early release may decide the next move. The next key signal is the dam's storage level at the end of October, which will shape the rabi plan.
Source: deccanherald.com
This story was synthesised by AI from the source linked above. Methodology and corrections.
