Bhopal: Madhya Pradesh’s Chief Minister, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, convened a meeting to assess the readiness of the state to ensure water and electricity supply for agricultural activities, especially in light of the subpar monsoon rainfall experienced in the region. Emphasizing the importance of consistent power supply, CM Chouhan urged officials to prioritize maintenance and staffing to prevent any potential disruptions. The meeting centred around strategizing efficient electricity demand and supply management for the various regions in the forthcoming months.
Asserting the vital role of agriculture in the state’s economy, CM Chouhan insisted that the upcoming Rabi season must not witness any shortage of water or electricity, ensuring that farmers do not suffer due to infrastructural inadequacies. The review was attended by prominent officials, including the Energy Minister Pradyuman Singh Tomar, Chief Secretary Iqbal Singh Bains, and other senior members of the agricultural and energy departments.
The state has been grappling with an erratic monsoon, which has led to below-average rainfall. In certain regions, there hasn’t been any rain for over a week, creating distress among the farming community. Early signs of stress on soybean crops are evident, with reports indicating potential crop failure.
Additionally, the paddy crop, a staple in the region, shows signs of damage with discolouration and pest infestation. This atypical weather pattern, coupled with the unpredictable monsoon, has heightened the anxieties of the agricultural community, emphasizing the need for immediate intervention and planning.