Aurangabad: Farmers in Bihar are facing growing difficulties as weak rainfall during the Hathiya nakshatra has affected the sowing of Rabi crops, while pest infestations are damaging paddy fields. Reports from Haspura and nearby areas suggest that the “Super Paddy” variety is being hit the hardest. The fast-growing crop is now at the ear emergence stage, making it highly vulnerable to pests that attack the roots and dry up the stalks, locally known as the “Madhua” pest. Farmers fear that this could significantly reduce their yields if the situation continues.
Many farmers have been spraying insecticides regularly to protect their crops. Farmer Nandkishore Singh said that sufficient rainfall during the Hathiya nakshatra would have prevented this outbreak. He added that while wealthier farmers are able to apply pesticides frequently, sharecroppers and daily-wage laborers are struggling because of the high cost of these chemicals. Rising prices in the market are making it even harder for small farmers to save their crops.
The pest infestation has created a heavy burden, particularly for poorer farmers. Sharecroppers and laborers who cannot afford pesticides face the risk of losing most of their crops. For many of these families, agriculture is their main source of income, and the current situation is putting them under considerable financial stress. The combination of poor rainfall and pest damage is a serious challenge for Bihar’s agricultural community this season.
Officials and agricultural experts are urging farmers to take preventive measures and are encouraging authorities to provide assistance where possible. With the Rabi season delayed and paddy crops under threat, immediate support for farmers in affected areas is considered essential. Without help, many small farmers may face reduced harvests and increased economic hardship in the coming months.
