Hailstorm-hit farmers find support as MLA backs compensation demand

Farmers affected by the recent hailstorm in the region have found a strong ally in Congress MLA Raghubir Singh Tewatia, who accompanied a delegation of the Sanyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) to submit a memorandum to the Deputy Commissioner on Tuesday, seeking immediate compensation for the damage caused to standing crops and vegetables.

Tewatia, representing the Prithla Assembly segment, expressed solidarity with the farmers and urged the state government to expedite financial support. “Coming from a farming background, I fully understand the pain and suffering of farmers who often bear the brunt of such calamities. Without government support, they cannot recover from these losses,” he said.

While acknowledging the state government’s recent announcement of a survey to assess the damage, Tewatia emphasised the urgency of releasing compensation, particularly for marginal farmers who are unable to absorb the financial impact.

Mahender Singh Chauhan, spokesperson for the SKM, highlighted that crops in 25 to 30 villages had been severely affected by the hailstorm. A detailed survey is required to determine the exact extent of the losses. Villages listed in the memorandum include Ghughera, Alika, Dhatir, Yadupur, Kakrali, Karana, Gelpur Badha, Maheshpur, Mandori, Johar Kheda, Durainchi, Khokhiyaka, Gharot, Rakhouta, Janachauli, Aluka and Jainpur.

Chauhan said farmers in the region were already grappling with challenges such as inadequate irrigation facilities, shortage of fertilisers and seeds, and issues with disposing of paddy stubble. “The hailstorm has further distressed the crop growers, pushing many to the brink,” he stated.

Tara Chand, a local SKM leader, pointed out that many farmers, being illiterate and lacking access to online portals or crop insurance, are especially vulnerable. “Any delay by the authorities will worsen the situation on the ground,” he warned.

The memorandum also called for the release of adequate water in the canals connected to the Agra Canal in Palwal district to ensure sufficient irrigation for wheat crops in areas with little or no rainfall this season.

Deputy Commissioner Dr Harish Kumar Vashisht has assured that the survey would be conducted promptly and that the concerns raised in the memorandum would be forwarded to higher authorities for necessary action.