4000 MT rice in danger of going waste
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, October 13 2021:
Around 4000 metric tonnes of paddy crops in Pourabi of Khundrakpam AC are in danger of going to waste due to irregular supply of water and delayed distribution of fertiliser.
On Wednesday, Economic and Resources Development Organisation (ERDO-Kangleipal) conducted an inspection with media persons, wherein it was found that around 1000 'lou pari' in Pourabi Makou Loukon did not have any irrigation system in place.
There was no sign of the central of the state governments taking up agriculture related irrigation system in the area, he added, the team, which also comprised Pourabi farmers and Pourabi Covid-19 Joint Task Force members, found that many of the crops have failed to flower or ripen due to lack of water.
There was no structure in Ithei Loukon for supply of water to the 1000 'lou pari', which is the source of food of around 300 households.
As such, the government scheme of providing water to farmers cannot be taken up in the area.
Farmers are left with no choice but to put their hands on their hands.
Speaking onthe sidelines Of the inspection, Pourabi Covid-19 Joint Task Force publicity secretary Wahengbam Janmenjoy Meetei raised concerns that the yield for this year would be lower as majority of the crops are withering.
Thus, the farmers would not be able to pay the rental fees/yearly tribute to the farm owners, he said, while appealing to the farm owners not to demand the tribute/fees for this year.
He also appealed to the state government to look into the sufferings of the farmers.
After the inspection, ERDO representatives held a meeting with the farmers of the area.
In his speech, ERDO general secretary Shanta Nahakpam informed that the organisation is all set to extend help and support activities related to the Rabi season.
He then termed unfortunate that no irrigation system was detected in Pourabi Makou Loukon, including absence of implement of any other government scheme.
Urging the government to formulate an action plan to compensate the farmers for loss of economy and resources, Shanta demanded the departments concerned to look into the matter and address all grievances.