Cyclone Montha and rain threat: Farmers rush to harvest unripe paddy in Odisha

Farmers in several parts of Odisha have begun harvesting paddy prematurely as the threat of a possible cyclone Montha looms over the region. Concerned about potential heavy rainfall and crop loss, many cultivators are cutting unripe paddy to minimise the damage. 

According to reports, harvesting machines are being used on acres of farmland to cultivate unripe paddy, with Athagarh farmers working continuously to secure what they can before the weather worsens.

According to reports, farmers are already facing severe challenges due to wild animals, such as wild boars, elephants, and deer, entering farmlands and destroying crops. The incessant rains in 2025 also caused multiple floods, leading to extensive agricultural losses in several areas. The fear of another natural calamity has now prompted early harvesting, adding to the farmers’ financial and mental strain.

Farmers Express Their Concerns

One farmer shared, “This year, paddy cultivation has been badly affected. The crops are not even fully ripe, yet we are compelled to harvest them early. If the cyclone strikes, we would not be able to save even this much.”

Another farmer added, “We are forced to harvest the unripe paddy as the predicted cyclone could cause even greater damage. Wild animals have already destroyed part of our crop, and we cannot afford to wait until it ripens completely.”

The fear of cyclonic conditions has led to an unusual rush in the harvesting season. Farmers continue to work against time, hoping to salvage as much of their yield as possible before the weather turns severe.