Unseasonal rains in Gujarat: Only 3.39 lakh of 30 lakh applicants get assistance

Unseasonal rains damaged crops across 42 lakh hectares in Gujarat this year, pushing lakhs of farmers into financial distress. In response, the state government announced a ₹10,000-crore agricultural relief package, but farmer organisations say that the majority of affected cultivators may still be left without support.

According to official data, nearly 30 lakh farmers have applied for compensation, yet only 3.39 lakh have received assistance so far. Despite the massive package, the government has allegedly disbursed just ₹1,098 crore, prompting accusations from farmer groups that not even half the promised amount is reaching those who need it.

With the Rabi sowing season underway, farmers say they are struggling to buy seeds, fertilisers and pesticides due to the delay in relief payments. Many complain that the government’s claims of swift action do not match the ground reality.

Applications for compensation will remain open until Friday, but lakhs of farmers are still waiting for their dues. Farmer organisations allege that the ₹10,000-crore package risks becoming mere political rhetoric, pointing out that previous relief schemes also saw less than half the allocated funds being utilised.