Need for self sufficiency echoes in Fair inaugural function
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, May 03 2012:
A three-day farmers' mela organised by SMART Society under the sponsorship of NABARD-RO, Manipur was inaugurated today at Singjamei Yumnam Leikai Lairembi Lampak.
The farmers' mela with the theme 'know your farmers' witnessed the opening of 42 stalls by farmers from eight districts of the State except Ukhrul district.
The inaugural function of the fair was graced by State's Agriculture Minister, Md Abdul Nasir; K Saratkumar, Director of Fisheries; Sanyola Kengou, Programme Coordinator, KVK; Y Muhindro, President of Yumnam Leikai Lairembi Sevayed Committee; and E Brojendro, general secretary of SMART Society as the chief guest, guests of honour and president respectively.
Giving the key-note address, W Khelendra said the fair aims to set up stage for farmers' exposure, and to provide ample marketing avenue for the farmers.
Stating that the concerned department is to be blamed for insufficiency of food production by the State, Khelendra said that ways and means should be determined collectively so as to ensure self sufficiency in food production.
Speaking at the occasion, newly inducted agriculture Minister, Md Abdul Nasir maintained that the State would tread the path of prosperity when equal importance is given to the farmers in the rural and urban areas.
Stressing on the need to execute work with the concerned NGOs for the betterment of the farmer, the minister said the Government should give prime importance on farmers' welfare oriented programme.
K Saratkumar said the State is now able to produce 20,000 metric tons of food stuff annually while only 7,000 mt of food stuffs are imported for consumption.
He said increase in production of various agriculture, horticulture, and fishery products has been recorded in recent times thanks to the introduction of modern farming technologies adding that the State is heading towards self sufficiency.
Lauding the efforts of the organiser of the fair, he also exhorted that holding of such farmers' fair would surely pay dividend in boosting the morale of the farmers.
The speakers also highlighted the need for the state to strive for self-sufficiency in food production in the wake of frequent economic blockades and the Government's unstringent support to reinforce any attempt in this direction.
The fair exhibited captivating breeds of fish, farm machineries, a variety of vegetables, handloom and handicraft products.