MMTU calls for utilising farmlands to ensure food security
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, December 07 2024: The Meetei (Meitei) Tribe Union (MMTU) has urged the government to prioritise the cultivation of winter crops on farmlands left unused after paddy harvesting.

Highlighting the severe economic impact and scarcity of essential commodities caused by the ongoing crisis in the state, the union called for collective efforts to boost food security and strengthen the state's socio-economy.

The union, in a statement, urged departments such as agriculture, horticulture, and other allied sectors to devise and implement plans to cultivate winter crops.

This initiative, according to the MMTU, would not only strengthen the state's economy but also promote work culture among the people.

The union also appealed to MLAs, ministers, and elected representatives of panchayats to mobilise resources and extend the initiative to the grassroots level.

Highlighting the gravity of the situation, the MMTU revealed that approximately 9,740 hectares of farmland remained unutilised last year due to the ongoing conflict.

This resulted in a staggering financial loss of around Rs 700 crore.

The union expressed concern that the current year is seeing a similar trend, with many farmers losing their primary source of livelihood.

The government's inability to provide a secure environment for farmers, particularly in areas within and beyond the so-called buffer zones, has exacerbated the crisis, leaving vast stretches of fertile land unproductive.

Adding to the economic distress, the MMTU pointed out that frequent blockades and shutdowns of national highways have disrupted the availability of essential commodities.

This has caused a sharp rise in the prices of basic goods, further burdening the people.

In such circumstances, the union questioned why the state would allow its fertile farmlands to remain idle for months instead of utilising them for winter crop cultivation.

To facilitate this initiative, the MMTU emphasised the need for a behavioural shift among the public.

Traditionally, farmers in many areas have allowed their cattle to roam freely after paddy harvesting, a practice that deters the cultivation of winter crops and vegetables.

Some villages, such as those in Lamlai and Kumbi assembly constituencies, have already begun addressing this issue by restricting farmers from letting loose cattle.

Last year, Kumbi MLA actively promoted winter farming by sponsoring tractors and providing seeds to farmers.

The MMTU urged other MLAs and elected representatives, even those in urban constituencies like Imphal city, to coordinate with rural counterparts to support farmers in these endeavours, as the city relies heavily on agricultural produce from rural areas.

Drawing inspiration from history, the MMTU underscored the resilience of Vietnamese farmers during the Vietnam War (1951-1975), who continued farming with assault rifles slung over their shoulders.

They emphasised that a similar spirit is necessary for the state at this critical juncture.

The union stressed that the ongoing crisis should not halt farming activities, as it would be counterproductive to advocate for food security while leaving vast tracts of fertile land unutilised.

MMTU called upon civil society organisations, farmers' associations, local clubs, and the general public to work collectively toward achieving self-reliance in food production.

They urged all stakeholders to come together to ensure that the state's fertile lands are used productively, thus addressing both the economic challenges and the scarcity of essential commodities in the state.

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