Delayed Monsoon Hits Kharif Ops

Ryots begin sowing seeds but continued absence of showers has jeopardised their efforts

- Y BRAHMAJI @ Vijayawada

A prolonged dry spell following the early onset of the southwest monsoon is raising alarm among farmers across Andhra Pradesh. Though the monsoon officially arrived on May 26—nine days ahead of schedule—its progress has stalled for nearly 20 days, severely affecting Kharif agricultural operations.

Farmers, particularly paddy cultivators, began sowing seeds in anticipation of consistent rainfall, but the continued absence of showers has jeopardised their efforts, leaving seeds vulnerable to desiccation and threatening crop loss.