China virus infestation worsens Punjab farmers crisis after devastating floods, Patiala farmers share their plight
PTC Web Desk: Punjab’s farmers are reeling under a double blow as devastating floods were followed by the outbreak of a crop disease locally referred to as 'China virus'. The infestation has severely damaged standing crops, leading to stunted growth and large-scale destruction across several districts.
When the PTC News team visited Hardaspur village in Patiala district, farmers shared their plight and expressed gratitude that the channel was the first to reach ground zero. Villagers alleged that neither the government nor other media outlets had taken stock of the crisis so far.
Farmers lamented that nature’s fury and the crop virus had left them helpless. One farmer revealed that his entire crop on 10 acres of leased land had been wiped out by the virus. “There is no sign of officials or relief teams here. The administration has completely ignored us,” he said.
Despite this being the constituency of Punjab Health Minister Dr Balbir Singh, locals claimed that the minister had not visited to assess the damage. Farmers also alleged that several hundred acres of farmland across Punjab have already been rendered unproductive due to the infestation. While the sowing required immense investment, saving the infected crop would now require double the cost.
Another challenge lies in the mandis (grain markets). Some farmers reported that their wheat crop is ripe for sale but government procurement has been delayed. Commission agents (arhtiyas) complained that no inspectors were visiting mandis, leaving large quantities of grain stuck without buyers.
Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader and Patiala-2 constituency in-charge Jaspal Singh Bittu Chatha also visited the village to meet the affected farmers. Speaking to the media, he criticised the state government for its inaction. “First floods destroyed the crops, now this China virus has made things worse. Where is the government? Even though this is the constituency of a Cabinet Minister, no one has come to help the farmers,” he said.
He demanded that the state immediately direct procurement from warehouses and ensure farmers’ crops are purchased without delay. “This is the first time we are seeing such a government that seeks help from the people instead of helping them,” he added.
Reaffirming SAD’s support for farmers, Jaspal Singh Bittu Chatha announced that memorandums would soon be submitted to the Patiala Deputy Commissioner and other officials. If compensation is not provided, the SAD warned of large-scale protests. Party president Sukhbir Singh Badal is also likely to visit the area to witness firsthand the plight of farmers.
- PTC NEWS
