The pre-monsoon spell in April and May has raised the hopes of farmers in perennially drought-prone Kolar district. Though the April and May rain and hail storm caused huge damage to crops including mango and tomato, the farmers in general have started readying their fields for sowing.
The fact that the district has received more rain than traditional rainfall also enhances farmers hopes. While traditional average rainfall in the district is 133.60 mm, the district has received 234.20 mm rain till May this year.
The target for monsoon sowing is 1.02 lakh hectare- 93, 290 hectare rain fed and 8,710 hectare irrigation-based.
However, sowing activities were completed in only 338 hectare land because of lack of rain. But according to Agriculture Department sources, Kolar in Bayaluseeme region can expect rain for sowing only after month of July.
Preparations
The Agriculture Department is gearing up to supply required seeds and fertilizers to the farmers. The demand for various sowing seeds is 9,940 quintal and 2,120 quintal has already been supplied to the needy farmers, sources said.
Taluk-wise sowing target
Bangarpet - 23,630 hectare
Kolar - 19,115 ha.
Malur – 16,055 ha.
Mulbagal - 26,075 ha.
Srinivasapur – 17,125 ha.
