Sri Vijaya Puram, July 30: Farmers of Bajota, Chainpur, and Hanspuri villages under Gram Panchayat Chainpur are facing a double challenge during the current Kharif season. On one hand, inadequate rainfall has adversely affected paddy cultivation, while on the other, a rapidly spreading pest infestation has caused serious concern among farmers by damaging their standing paddy crops.
Mr.Johnson Kerketta, Pradhan of Gram Panchayat Chainpur, stated that almost all families in Hanspuri village depend on paddy cultivation for their livelihood, while the majority of farmers in Bajota also cultivate paddy. In Chainpur village, farmers grow vegetables in addition to paddy. At present, many farmers have already prepared paddy nurseries, and several have completed the transplantation of paddy seedlings. However, the widespread pest infestation has caused significant damage to the crop. If timely and effective measures are not taken, farmers may suffer substantial financial losses.
Considering the seriousness of the situation, the Pradhan of Gram Panchayat Chainpur has submitted a representation to the Deputy Commissioner, North & Middle Andaman District, requesting that an expert team from the Agriculture Department be deputed immediately to conduct a field inspection of the affected villages. He has also requested the administration to provide the affected farmers with the necessary pesticides, technical guidance, agricultural assistance, and any available relief under Government schemes.
The Pradhan Mr.J kerketta expressed hope that prompt intervention by the administration would help protect the standing paddy crop and minimize the financial losses of farmers. The farming community has also appealed to the administration to treat the matter on priority and take immediate necessary action.
