Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, October 26:
The three day training programme on North East Region Community Resource Management Project (Nercormp)/International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) Model of Community Development has begun from today at the conference hall of Hotel Imphal.
Speaking as chief guest of the inaugural programme Chairman of MANIREDA PL Thanga lamented that in Manipur hardly any development project could be implemented smoothly as it has become an unhealthy trend for vested interest to criticise any policy without assessing the projects' merits or demerits.
Rather than extend cooperation and contribute respective individual or organisations' mite to developmental works schemed by subject experts the practice presently besieging Manipuri society is lack of understanding between the public leaders and the masses, said the chief guest.
Contrary to introduction of many innovative and developmental projects highly suitable to Manipur there is absolute absence of individuals or organisations willing to chip in to development works, expressed the MANIREDA chief.
The IAS officer also ridiculed frequent posers raised from certain quarters and argumentative mentality of the people whenever suitable projects are launched in the State, instead of paying heed to comments of experts for maximum benefit of any model project.
Substantiating PL Thanga's remarks, Deputy Commissioner of Senapati district Dr Prem Singh said compared to tremendous potential the district is blessed with for plantation of the commercially viable passion fruit, the number of farmers opting for the cash crop is till very negligible.
Apart from the hill ranges most suitable for passion fruit plantation, such cash crop planted in a single hectare of land could yield upto Rs 5 lakh a year to the grower, highlighted the DC who graced the occasion as the guest of honour.
Dr Prem, who is also the Chairman of the training programme host Senapati District Community Resource Management Society (Sedcorms)/IFAD further suggested that local farmers reap the golden opportunity to augment their income sources without any delay.
Shillong unit Project coordinator and Development Strategist of Nercormp/IFAD Moses Chalai was the functional president.
The training programme to be held till October 28 is intent on expanding knowledge of NGOs operating in Manipur.