Pune: In June, Marathwada region of Maharashtra experienced 27 per cent excess rainfall – highest in the last five years.
Agriculture experts said that good rains will benefit the Kharif crop and give good yields to the farmers as sowing will be done on time.
According to the data furnished by Pune-based India Meteorological Department (IMD), in June 2016, the region received 10 per cent excess rainfall whereas in June 2015 the region had 17 per cent deficient rainfall. This area is drought-prone due to scanty rainfall over the years. Speaking about the impact of good rains, Rajaram Deshmukh, Vice Chancellor of Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth (MPKV) said that the farmers can sow till July 5.
“In some parts, farmers have already started sowing which is good as the rains have been in abundance. Kharif crops like tur, soybean, groundnut is a good crop for this season. With more rains, their yield is expected to be more,” said Deshmukh.
Dr Ramachandra Sabale, a renowned agro-weather expert had earlier predicted, based on IMD data, that the State will receive up to 102 per cent monsoon rains which will yield a good crop for the farmers. “The effect of El Nino did not have an impact on the rains so far. The farmers can start the sowing process after any specific areas receive 65 mm of rainfall.
The water content in the soil is optimum for further cultivation. We are also expecting good Kharif crop this time,” said Sabale.
He said that the farmers and agricultural community should keep a close check on the weather so that they can use the tips from the weather department for cultivation.
Speaking to Sakal Times, AK Srivastava, head of climate monitoring and analysis group at IMD, said overall distribution of rain in Maharashtra is so far surplus. “Only Vidarbha has experienced normal rain as compared to excess rainfall in other parts of the State of Maharashtra. But in July we expect good rainfall there as well,” noted Srivastava.
