Hailstorm affected farms assessed, CM lauds dept
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, May 11 2024: In the aftermath of the severe hailstorm that struck the state on May 5, the state Horticulture & Soil Conservation department has carried out field visits to assess crop loss and extend assistance to affected farmers.

Chief Minister N Biren expressed appreciation of the department's swift action.

In a post on X, Biren stated, "I appreciate the team from the Department of Horticulture & Soil Conservation for conducting a field visit and interacting with the farmers of Phubala, Sunisiphai, and adjoining areas of Bisnupur District on 11 May, 2024, in continuation of the ongoing measures to provide assistance to the hailstorm-affected farmers" .

As reports are being collected from the farmers, the government is swiftly implementing measures to address their immediate needs and provide necessary assistance, the CM added.

Earlier on Thursday, CM Biren visited Sunusiphai, Phubala, Naranseina and Thamnapokpi villages, where he assessed the storm affected houses and inter acted with families.

Moirang MLA Th Shanti, Loktak Development Authority (LDA) chairman M Asnikumar, DC Bishnupur and other district officers accompanied the chief minister, who also interacted with farmers whose crops have been damaged by the hailstorm.

Interacting with the affected families, Biren said that he had instructed the agriculture and horticulture department officials to assess the damages and he would soon get a detailed report.

Once, the report is submitted, the government will provide compensation to the farmers.

As per initial report, over 40 hectares of farms have been damaged and the farmers will be provided assistance under two schemes through the disaster management department and the Chief Minister's Relief Fund, he assured.

Mention may be made here that following the widespread hailstorm that swept through the state, farmers in Toubul, Khoisuman, Kwasiphai, Naranseina, Phubala, Sunusiphai, and various other areas within Bishnupur district find themselves grappling with substantial crop damage, exacerbating the already dire situation caused by losses to their homes and infrastructure.

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