CPI(M) Farmer Wing AIKS Questions Kharif Production Estimates Amid Flood Damage

The All India Kisan Sabha (AIKS), associated with the CPIM, has criticised the advance estimates for kharif production in 2025-26. They argue that these projections are inaccurate due to severe flooding in Punjab, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh. The estimates suggest record rice and maize outputs of 124.5 million tonnes and 28.3 million tonnes, respectively, based on past yield trends and state data.

AIKS highlighted that approximately 1.9 lakh hectares in Punjab have been flood-affected. In Haryana, farmers reported crop losses on over 12.5 lakh acres through the state's e-Kshatipurti portal. Himachal Pradesh's official assessments indicate crop damage on 24,552 hectares. Additionally, a dwarf virus has impacted paddy crops in these regions, exacerbating losses.

Flood Impact and Fertiliser Shortages

Floods have also damaged crops in Maharashtra, Telangana, and Karnataka. AIKS noted that farmers faced severe fertiliser shortages during the kharif season. Delegations visiting flood-hit areas witnessed significant crop loss due to submersion. Persistent fertiliser supply issues have led to long queues at shops and cooperatives.

AIKS accused the Union government of misrepresenting the situation by claiming record kharif production. They argue that relying on past yields for projections is misleading when recent seasons have experienced widespread crop damage. Such data can be used to deny crop insurance benefits and compensation.

Government's Production Estimates

Agriculture Minister Shiraj Singh Chouhan released the first advance estimates for main kharif crops on November 26. The ministry expects total food grain production to rise by 3.87 million tonnes to 173.33 million tonnes. Rice production was 122.8 million tonnes during the kharif 2024-25 season.

The minister acknowledged excessive rainfall affecting some areas but noted that most regions benefited from a good monsoon, resulting in overall positive crop growth. Kharif crops are sown from June to July with the monsoon's onset and harvested in September-October, with rice being the primary crop alongside pulses and oilseeds.

With inputs from PTI