Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, December 14 2009:
Decrying the failure of the Govt to act on its demands including timely supply of PDS items to the farmers inspite of having submitted memorandum to the Prime Minister and the Chief Minister, Manipur Loumee Lup organised a protest demonstration at Keishampat Junction here today.
Talking to mediapersons on the sidelines of the protest demonstration, secretary of Loumee Lup H Ibobi asserted that farmers in Manipur have been deprived of their rights, whether it be ensuring irrigation facilities, seeds, fertiliser, etc.
This is on top of depriving the PDS items like rice, sugar and Kerosene.
Highlighting the demands of the aggrieved farmers, memorandum have been submitted to the Prime Minister and the Chief Minister on August 27 last.
Some of the demands highlighted in the memorandum include providing the fund and the seeds sanctioned for Kharif season this year, ensuring availability of PDS items to the farmers, allowing full participation of the farmers in NREGS works, formulation of a suitable Agriculture policy of Manipur, payment of compensation to the farmers affected by Loktak Project, revival of co-operative societies and ensuring the benefits of Krishi Viyan Kendra and ICAR to the farmers.
Taking up necessary measures for harvesting rain water in both the hill and valley areas for irrigation purposes, extension of Kishan Credit Cards to the farmers without guarantor, interest free loan and proper implementation of Panchayati institutions are also among other demands of Loumee Lup.
Ibobi further said that the Govt should listen to the demands of the farmers while their agitation is still peaceful and democratic.