Farmers in Karnataka, particularly in the Kalaburgi (Gulbarga) district, are facing severe losses due to a water shortage that has devastated the Tuvar (Arhar) crop, a key oilseed in the region. Kalaburgi is the largest producer of Tuvar in the state, which is also the leading producer of Arhar in India.

Due to a significant rainfall deficit and high temperatures, the crop has suffered extensive damage, especially during its critical growth stage in November.

The district recorded only 5 mm of rain in November, about 70% less than the usual 20 mm, which led to the drying up of large portions of the crop.

The Karnataka State Raiyat Sangh reported that, out of the 6.22 lakh hectares sowed with Tuvar in Kalaburgi this year, around 2 lakh hectares have been almost entirely destroyed. In response to the devastating crop loss, the Sangh has called for the state government to provide Rs 25,000 per acre as compensation to affected farmers.

They have warned that if the compensation is not swiftly announced, they will stage a massive protest in front of the state assembly during the winter session in Belgaum.

Initially, the Union Agriculture Ministry had predicted a good national production of Tuvar due to the promising crop conditions in Karnataka, but these losses have now led to a revision of the production estimate.

The Deputy Commissioner of Kala burgi has promised that insurance payouts and relief assistance will be provided, and a crop survey is underway. However, farmers are anxiously waiting for the relief funds to reach them.