Gaikhangam pitches for agricultural lands
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, June 21 2012:
Home and Horticulture and Soil Conservation Minister Gaikhangam has expressed deep concern over the ever shrinking agricultural land of Manipur.
Speaking as chief guest at a reception function hosted by Kishan Khet Mazdoor in honour of MLAs Preshow Shimray, Kh Devendro and himself, Gaikhangam advocated protection of agricultural lands.
Stating that the Indian economy is mainly dependent on agricultural produces, Gaikhangam said that economic well being and development of the country depends on agricultural productivity.
Congress party which took pivotal roles in the freedom movement of India has been working for welfare for peasants since independence, he added.
The party opened its Kishan cell with the primary objective of ensuring economic upliftment of farmers.
When no crops are produced from agricultural fields, tonnes of precious jewellery cannot bring development in the State.
Any country which is facing food shortage or insecurity cannot be called a developed country, said Gaikhangam.
He exhorted farmers to adopt double and triple cropping patterns and keep the fields green throughout the year.
Addressing the function held at Pisgah Bhavan, Palace View, Imphal East, Preshow Shimray noted that farmers have big expectations from the Government.
He said that it is the duty of all elected representatives including himself to deliver what they promised to the public and farmers.
It is the responsibility of the Government to ensure empowerment of farmers and make sure that benefits of different agriculture-related schemes reach farmers.
In a significant development, mushrooms, cucumber, water-melon and other vegetables are now planted on 50 per cent of the paddy fields of Imphal West district after harvesting paddy, said Kh Devendro.
As a part of the function, banana saplings were distributed to Kishan Khet Mazdoor district coordinators of Thoubal, Chandel, Churachandpur, Senapati, Imphal West, Ukhrul, Tamenglong and Sadar Hills.