The state government must continue to support farmers during their transition to organic farming, the National People’s Party Farmers’ Front (NPPFF) said today.
NPPFF chairman Himalaya M Shangpliang also stressed the importance of continuing fertiliser supplies during this time.
The NPPFF today announced the appointment of district presidents for the Khasi-Jaintia and Ri-Bhoi districts. Shangpliang stated that the district presidents will form district and block committees within a month.
He also said that the front deliberated on several crucial issues, including the Chief Minister’s assured scheme to support broomstick and areca nut farmers.
He said that the NPPFF resolved to approach the government to review and enhance the price of broomsticks from Rs 55 per kilogramme and increase the quota beyond 1,000kg.
Informing that there are 5,600 registered farmers as of April 21, with an amount released to the tune of Rs 5.82 crore, Shangpliang said that the farmers’ group also emphasised the need to expedite the registration process for farmers.
With regard to subsidised fertiliser support, the NPPFF leader informed that 500 tonnes has reached the Meghalaya border in Khanapara.
Meanwhile, the NPPFF members discussed the problem of bud rot disease affecting areca nut plants in South West Khasi Hills and West Khasi Hills and Shangpliang appealed to the Agriculture and Horticulture Departments to take immediate steps to address the issues faced by farmers, including bud rot.
