Heavy caterpillar infestation on castor crops in five villages of Vijapur

A heavy terror of caterpillars has been observed on castor crops in five villages of Vijapur taluka in Mehsana district, leaving the financial condition of farmers extremely dire. According to a report from Sandesh, an extremely heavy infestation of caterpillars has occurred in the fields of Morvad, Kundal, Mithiya, Tabenva, and Amrapura villages.

Due to this pest, the lush green castor plants are on the verge of complete destruction and will no longer be able to survive in the fields for much longer. Farmers had spent thousands of rupees on seeds, fertilisers, medicines, and labour, but with the possibility of zero production, all their hard work appears to be failing. As there is no hope of obtaining produce, farmers are having to bear significant financial losses.

The affected farmers have demanded immediate action from the Agriculture Department and the administration. The farmers demand that a field inspection and survey be conducted promptly by agricultural experts and responsible officials. Additionally, requests have been made to provide proper guidance and treatment to prevent crop loss, as well as to ensure proper assessment of the damage so that farmers receive adequate financial assistance and the benefits of government schemes.