2026 Dry Season Arrives Earlier, Majalengka Farmers Urged to Accelerate Planting

Farmers in Majalengka Regency are urged to accelerate the second planting season or gadu 2026, following information from the BMKG predicting that this year’s dry season will arrive earlier than usual. Based on information from the West Java Climatology Station, analysis of atmospheric dynamics and normal period data from 1991–2020 indicates that this year’s dry season will be dominated by below-normal rainfall in most areas of West Java. The start of the dry season is forecast to occur gradually from March to June 2026. In response, the Majalengka Regency Food Security, Agriculture, and Fisheries Office (DKP3) has advised farmers to hasten the second planting season (MT II). The head of DKP3 Majalengka, Gatot Sulaeman, stated that they have instructed agricultural field extension officers to immediately coordinate with farming groups in each area. “Currently, not all farmers have completed harvesting. Some are still preparing for the first planting season (MT I) harvest because they previously experienced planting delays due to uneven rainfall,” Gatot said on Saturday (11/4/2026). He explained that several areas, such as Jatitujuh Subdistrict, Ligung, and parts of Kertajati, faced irrigation water supply constraints, which delayed planting schedules. Therefore, farmers are encouraged to promptly carry out MT II planting after completing the MT I harvest to anticipate the dry season expected to arrive earlier. “All field officers have been asked to be on standby, especially for rain-fed paddy fields that heavily depend on rainfall. They must utilise the remaining time before the dry season arrives,” he clarified. In the field, farmers have responded variably to the appeal. Dedi (45), a farmer from Ligung Subdistrict, said he is ready to accelerate planting if water conditions are sufficient. “If water is still available, we are ready to plant earlier. But if it starts drying up, it will be a challenge. We hope for irrigation solutions or pump assistance,” he said. Meanwhile, Ujang (50), a farmer in the Jatitujuh area, views the acceleration of planting as an appropriate step, but it needs support in terms of production facilities. “Seeds, fertiliser, and water must be ready. If everything is supportive, we are optimistic that the yield will still be good despite the earlier dry season,” he stated. With synergy between the government and farmers, the agricultural sector in Majalengka Regency is expected to remain productive despite facing climate change challenges in 2026. According to related agency data, agricultural production achievements in Majalengka Regency up to March 2026 show positive results. The harvested area reached 31,253 hectares with a total production of 204,261 tonnes of unhulled rice from January to March 2026.