Time to stand with farmers

The paddy fields of Kashmir, once vibrant with the promise of harvest, now bear witness to a season of distress. Farmers across the Valley have reported an alarming decline in paddy production this year, with yields plummeting by nearly 40–50 per cent. This is not just a crisis of agriculture but a crisis of livelihoods, food security and rural stability. Growers from several districts have mentioned that the weather pattern this year has devastated their livelihood. For three consecutive months—June, July and August—there was hardly any rainfall. The crop did not grow properly and then just when they were expecting to harvest, heavy rains submerged the fields for days together. The paddy fell flat and started rotting. The consequences are already painfully visible. For thousands of farmers who rely on paddy as their main source of income, this year’s losses could push them into financial despair. It is imperative that the government and agricultural agencies respond swiftly and comprehensively. Immediate relief measures, including compensation for crop loss, subsidised seeds for the next sowing season, and interest waivers on agricultural loans, must be prioritised. Moreover, a long-term action plan is needed to build resilience, improved irrigation systems, weather forecasting tools, crop insurance coverage and farmer training programs must become the norm, not the exception. This is not just about salvaging a harvest; it is about preserving the dignity of the farmer, the backbone of our rural economy. Let this season of loss be met with a season of solidarity and support.