Madhya Pradesh: Farmers Suffer Heavy Loss As Hailstorm Batters State; Fruits, Vegetables Damaged

Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): Farmers in several districts of Madhya Pradesh have suffered major losses due to hailstorms that recently lashed the region, causing severe damage to horticulture crops.

Experts and cultivators say the hail has shattered stems, bruised fruits, shredded leaves and triggered discoloration — making the produce less attractive and unmarketable. The impact of hailstorm is particularly harsh on horticulture crops such as mangoes, lemons and oranges.

Damaged plants divert their energy to healing instead of growth, resulting in lower yields. Additionally, the physical wounds make crops more vulnerable to fungal, bacterial, and insect attacks, while accelerated ripening leads to early spoilage and reduced shelf life.

“There has been a huge loss to farmers,” said Vridhi Chand Patidar, a farmer. “The hailstorm has severely affected horticulture crops across many districts — from fruits to vegetables, everything is damaged.” Kedar Sirohi, another farmer, pointed out a major policy gap.

“For kharif and rabi crops, we have crop insurance schemes and support under Revenue Book Circular (RBC) 6(4). The government provides compensation when those crops are damaged. But for horticulture, there is no such provision. Farmers are left to bear the losses alone.” Chandrakant Gaur, a mango grower, said, “The mango crop has been badly hit. Along with it, lemon and orange orchards across districts have suffered.

We’re seeing tattered leaves, broken stems, bruised and dropped fruits — all of which will drastically reduce yield and quality.” GS Kaushal, former director of agriculture, echoed these concerns.

“The government currently does not have any compensation policy for horticulture crop damage. Every year, hailstorms cause destruction to fruits and vegetables, and this year is no exception. Crops like mango, lemon, orange and field vegetables have been badly hit.”