Unseasonal Rains and Hailstorms Devastate Indian Rabi Crops, Affecting 2.49 Lakh Hectares

Key Points

• 2.49 lakh hectares of rabi crops affected across several Indian states
• Wheat suffered the greatest losses among all crops
• Three government departments conducting detailed damage surveys
• Coordination initiated with affected states and regional agriculture ministers

Full Details

Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan announced that unseasonal rains and hailstorms have affected approximately 2.49 lakh hectares of rabi crops, with wheat fields being the worst hit. The India Meteorological Department confirmed heavy precipitation and hail events from April 2-8 across numerous states. Three governmental departments are now conducting a thorough damage assessment survey and coordinating with affected states and regional agriculture ministers for relief measures. This weather event has severely impacted the rabi cropping season, which is crucial for India's food security and agricultural economy. The government is mobilizing resources to support affected farmers and assess the full extent of crop losses.