Rat Menace in Fields: Farmers Face 30% Crop Loss, Traditional Remedies Advised

• Farmers in the Vindhya region, especially Sidhi, are battling a severe rat infestation causing significant damage to wheat crops.
• Rats are destroying wheat ears and plant roots, potentially leading to a 25-30% reduction in yield, raising farmer concerns.
• Agricultural officer Sanjay Singh notes increased rat activity as wheat ears emerge, causing direct production loss.
• Traditional remedies like spraying a mixture of red chili, garlic, neem oil, and peppermint, or placing phenyl tablets, are recommended.
• Timely irrigation and regular field monitoring are crucial to deter rats and destroy their burrows, alongside cautious chemical use if necessary.