Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, October 24 2010:
In the backdrop of devastation caused to standing crops due to the recent deluge in various pockets of the valley district, winter vegetable seeds and horticultural equipment were distributed to farmers of Imphal East district through MLAs concerned.
The seeds were handed over to the MLAs at a distribution programme held today at the Supervisors' Training Hall of Horticulture and Soil Conservation, Mantripukhri.
Thongju AC representative Bijoy Koijam, who is also Deputy Chairman of State Planning Board, Khurai AC's Dr Ng Bijoy, Th Nandakishore of Kshetrigao AC and Th Shyamkumar of Andro AC were present at the occasion along with Commissioner (Hort) K Moses Chalai.
Apart from these assembly segments, farmers of from Yaiskul and Wangkhei ACs are also among the beneficiaries.
Speaking as the chief guest, Bijoy Koijam opined that there may be dissension in certain section of the farmers' community as seeds allocated today could not guarantee distribution to all owing to inadequacy.
Stating that with the allocated rabi crop seeds efforts would be made for maximum coverage through assessment of soil texture and suitability of the plant variety, the MLA also wondered how farmers of Wangkhei and Yaiskul ACs were included among the beneficiaries as these assembly segments have no or negligible plantation sites.
He wryly commented that in case the seeds are for kitchen garden that the intention is praiseworthy.
In addition to suggesting that such a provision should aim at contributing to the State's food production, Bijoy Koijam also desired that Horticulture Department extend material and technical assistance for development of the floriculture sector as substantial income could be generated.
Speaking at the occasion, Khurai AC representative Dr Ng Bijoy also regretted that some assembly segments within Imphal East district have been include inspite of the fact that they are residential areas.
He strongly advocated proper assessment of areas to ensure such provision contribute to the State's food stock.
MLAs Th Nandakishore and Th Shyamkumar, who also addressed the gathering, prevailed upon the farmers to utilise the provisions in a proper manner rather than trading off the seeds.