Scanty rainfall reduces tobacco area in Karnataka

(Hindu) Bangalore, July 9: Erratic and poor rainfall has reduced area under tobacco cultivation nearly 17 per cent to 90,000 hectares in Karnataka.
“Due to insufficient rains and lack of moisture, the planting area has seen sharp reduction this crop year,” Mr K.N. Vishakantaiah, Regional Manager, Tobacco Board, told Business Line.
“Tobacco growing taluks of Hunsur, Peryapatna, KR Nagar and Hassan are experiencing dry weather condition. The area had good rainfall up to May and had few showers in June,” he added.
Rains in May facilitated early plantation in about 60,000-65,000 hectares. Rains in June, saw another 25,000-30,000 hectares being added. Continued