The district administration warned that opting for water-intensive crops without adequate irrigation capacity could expose farmers to significant risks
Farmers Urged to Prioritize Water Availability in Rabi Sowing Plans
In Nashik, Collector Ayush Prasad has issued a warning to farmers regarding the risks of basing cultivation decisions solely on market trends. He emphasized the importance of considering water availability when planning for the rabi sowing season. This advisory comes in light of the recent delayed rainfall experienced during the kharif season, which has raised concerns about water resources for upcoming crops.
The district’s overall rabi acreage is expected to decline marginally this season due to lower water reserves, uneven rainfall and existing soil moisture conditions, according to preliminary estimates by the agriculture department.
“Farmers should follow the principle of ‘water first, crop next’ while preparing for the upcoming season,” the collector said. “Tehsildars and block development officers have been directed to inspect low-rainfall villages and assess water availability and agricultural conditions on the ground,” Prasad added. Rainfall distribution has been uneven across the district. eastern talukas like Nandgaon, Malegaon, Yeola and parts of Sinnar received below-normal showers, making irrigation planning critical for the rabi season While good rainfall in the western belt boosted reservoir levels and supported paddy cultivation. Meanwhile, the administration is stepping up stream deepening, desilting and other water conservation works.