Rainfall Fluctuations Threaten Maize Cultivation in Maharashtra's Marathwada

Concerns are mounting over maize cultivation in Maharashtra's Marathwada region as irregular rainfall and increased moisture evaporation pose significant challenges. Agriculture officials reported that approximately 2,56,650.38 hectares are earmarked for maize cultivation this year, spanning districts like Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Jalna, Beed, and others.

Superintending Agriculture Officer Prakash Deshmukh highlighted that maize, a water-sensitive crop, faces stress due to reduced moisture in some areas, replacing cotton over 50,000 hectares. The region has only received 70.5 mm of rain this month, compared to an average of 102.7 mm, making the situation critical.

Officials remain hopeful, stating that a brief rainy spell could restore moisture levels and help the maize crops survive. This comes amid the broader context of the region experiencing 31 percent less rainfall this month, compared to the same period last year.

(With inputs from agencies.)