<div>The delayed onset of monsoon and insufficient rainfall in many parts of the state have created a crisis for farmers, who are now grappling with the challenge of double sowing. <a href="https://www.mid-day.com/mumbai/mumbai-news/article/maharashtra-monsoon-session-congress-mlas-raise-slogans-against-state-govt-23298368" target="_blank" rel="none noopener"><strong>Congress</strong></a> leader Balasaheb Thorat, called for an immediate discussion on the farmer's issues in the Legislative Assembly, leading to a halt in the assembly proceedings.</div>
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<div>On the first day of the legislative session, Balasaheb Thorat put the government on the spot, raising questions about their handling of farmers' concerns.</div>
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<div>Thorat pointed out that this year, the monsoon arrived late due to storms in the state, resulting in less than fifty percent of the expected rainfall in many areas. The situation is dire, and farmers are facing extreme distress. However, the government has failed to take necessary measures to support and encourage farmers during this critical time.</div>
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<div>Currently, only 50 percent of the average Kharif area of 1.42 crore hectares in the state has been sown. The Konkan division has witnessed a mere 16.30 percent sowing, while the <a href="https://www.mid-day.com/search/pune-articles" target="_blank" rel="none noopener"><strong>Pune</strong></a> division has reached only 30 percent. Insufficient rainfall has hindered the progress of sowing in several parts of the state, further exacerbating the troubles faced by farmers.</div>
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<div>Despite receiving some rainfall in the first week of July, the intensity was not enough to provide adequate moisture to the soil. As a result, farmers who sowed their crops early faced withered and scorched soybean, cotton, and corn crops due to subsequent scanty rains and intense heat. This has forced them to consider replanting. The districts of Khandesh, Buldana, Washim, Parbhani, Hingoli, Aurangabad, Nagar, Pune, and Satara are particularly affected by this situation. In addition, farmers now face a shortage of seeds for double sowing due to the slow progress of sowing caused by the lack of rain.</div>
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<div>In areas with low rainfall, farmers initially began sowing, but later had to abandon their efforts due to the absence of rainfall. Despite the government's announcement of compensation for heavy rains, torrential rains, and hailstorms last year, no compensation has been disbursed to date. For instance, in Vankute village in Parner taluka of Nagar district, aid has yet to be distributed, even after inspection by the Chief Minister and Guardian Minister. Thorat stressed the urgent need for measures such as providing free seeds and fertilizers to farmers, but lamented the lack of discussion or action by ruling leaders and agriculture department officials.</div>
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<div><strong>Bogus seeds flood the market as farmers suffer financial losses; Corruption allegations arise</strong></div>
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<div>The scarcity of quality seeds and fertilizers has reached a critical level in the state, leading to substantial financial losses for farmers. In addition, certain government-linked groups are reportedly extorting money from farmers in various districts. Instead of taking action against such malpractices and providing support to farmers, the government appears preoccupied with administrative tasks, cabinet expansions, and political engagements in Delhi. This has raised concerns about when the government will address the urgent needs of farmers and address their ongoing crisis.</div>
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