CM inspects irrigation facilities, paddy fields
Source: The Sangai Express / DIPR

Imphal, July 01 2019: Chief Minister N Biren Singh visited different localities of Imphal West district to inspect the irrigation facilities under Minor Irrigation Department, and paddy fields in the backdrop of the prevailing drought-like situation due to scanty rainfall, today.

He was accompanied by State Planning Board Deputy Chairman and Lamshang AC MLA S Rajen, Secretary (Minor Irrigation/Water Resources) Jachintha Lazarus, Minor Irrigation Chief Engineer H Brojen and other officials.

The Chief Minister visited areas like Maklang Makha Leikai, Maklang Dam, Taothong Maning Leikai, Lambal Dam, Lamdeng, Khamran and Khonghampat.

CM inspects irrigation facilities, paddy fields

Speaking to media persons, the Chief Minister said that the Government would provide water pump sets to the farmers of the localities, where water sources like rivers, streams and ponds are present, within a few days.

He continued that hybrid seeds, which can be harvested in short duration, would be made available to farmers as well.

The Government will declare Manipur as a drought-hit State if the State does not receive enough rainfall, he added.

The CM said that Maklang has no proper water source and as such, steps will be taken up to divert the water from the rivers with the help of canals.

Stating that it might not be feasible to look for source of ground water, the CM said that for now, water pump sets will be provided so as to bring water from the nearby rivers, water bodies or dams.

Responding to a query on fertilizer availability, the Chief Minister said that the State Government has enough stock of fertilizers in the godowns.

He also explained that paddy and rice will be provided to the farmers based on demand after consulting the experts.

On the other hand, replying to another query, the Chief Minister said that there is some tension within the Government but as most of the Ministers and MLAs have returned from Delhi, a solution is within reach and added that for now, the focus will be only towards solving the problems faced by the people and farmers due to drought.

The Chief Minister the clarified that the news that the Central leaders will take up action against MLAs/Ministers who were not able to get large votes in the recent Lok Sabha election, is just a rumour.