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The recent heavy rains across key tur (pigeon pea) producing states such as Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Telangana have raised concerns over crop damage, with waterlogging potentially triggering diseases like phytophthora root rot. Farmers in regions like Kalaburgi fear significant crop losses, but experts believe the rains could also be beneficial in areas that experienced earlier deficits. Tur acreage has increased by 12.37% nationwide, which may offset some of the potential damage. However, tur prices have recently dropped by Rs.25 per kg, reflecting market uncertainty. The full impact of the rains on crop yield will be clearer in the coming weeks, which will influence future price trends.

Key Highlights

* Heavy rains have hit major tur-growing states like Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Telangana.

* Farmers fear crop diseases like phytophthora root rot due to waterlogging.

* Tur acreages have increased by 12.37% nationwide, signaling higher production potential.

* Despite rains, experts suggest the overall impact on yield may take weeks to assess.

* Tur prices have dropped by Rs.25/kg recently, reflecting uncertain market conditions.

The recent spell of heavy rains in key tur (pigeon pea) producing states like Karnataka, Maharashtra, Telangana, and Gujarat has raised concerns over potential damage to the crop. Excessive rainfall has caused waterlogging in several regions, leading to fears of diseases such as phytophthora root rot, which could negatively impact yield. According to Basavaraj Ingin, President of Karnataka Pradesh Red Gram Growers Association, about 2 lakh hectares of tur crop in Kalaburgi alone may be affected by waterlogging.

Despite the unfavorable weather, the price of tur has shown volatility, with a recent dip of Rs.25 per kg. However, this drop comes amid an increase in nationwide pulses acreage by 7.26%, with tur acreage specifically seeing a rise of 12.37% over last year. Karnataka and Maharashtra, the leading tur producers, have reported significant gains in sowing, with a 23% and 9.6% increase in acreages, respectively.

Further rainfall analysis from the Indian Meteorological Department shows that districts such as Kalaburgi and Bidar in Karnataka, as well as Latur in Maharashtra and Nizamabad in Telangana, have experienced precipitation levels significantly above the seasonal norms. While the rains have sparked concerns, some trade officials believe that this late monsoon activity may actually benefit the crop in regions that experienced deficit rainfall earlier in the season.

As the situation unfolds, the full extent of the damage or benefit to the tur crop will become clearer, which will likely influence market trends in the coming weeks.

Conclusion

The recent rains may lead to short-term price fluctuations, but their long-term impact on tur yield will take time to assess.

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