Chizokho Vero
March 9
Phek (MExN): Regretting the absence of any worthwhile industries in Nagaland, Minister for Agriculture, Printing and Stationery Kuzholuzo (Azo) Nienu today maintained that the state economy lies largely on the agricultural sector where 80 per cent of the state population depends on for livelihood.
Speaking at the Kharif seeds distribution ceremony at Town Hall this morning, the minister called upon the people to actively involve in the agricultural activities to boost the economy of the state.
“The government is serious. We are paying special attention to the farmers,” said Azo adding that the “Year of Farmers” will be implemented in letter and spirit.
Justifying that the “Year of Farmers”, was to enhance food grain production as well as boosting the economic condition of the people, particularly in the rural areas, the minister called upon then to involve in the programme with sincerity and activeness.
Admitting that the success of the programme depend on the dedication and sincerity of the farmers, the minister called upon them to correctly utilize “whatever facilities come on their way.”
Further, he asked the people to desist from ‘consuming’ the seed money being extended by the government and financial houses.
This assertion came in a wake of several peoples found ‘consuming’ the seed money and showing lesser concern on the very purpose of the government programmes and policies. The minister continued that the seed money will decide the fate of one’s future and win the trust of financial houses.
Azo also assured to strengthen the Agricultural Product Marketing Committee (APMC) as well as formation of Village Marketing Committee (VMC) to help farmers in selling their products at reasonable market prices through the government’s buy-back policy.
Referring to the forthcoming North East Agri Expo by March 27, the minister called upon the farmers to participate in the expo with their best produce to compete with the other farmers of the region.
The Expo is an attempt to showcase local produce and to display the latest agricultural technology.
MLAs S. Heno and Torechu accompanied the minister. Phek Deputy Commissioner Sachopra Vero, SP Phek and several government officers attended the function.
The additional target area for cultivation of various crops stand at 365 hectares with an expected production to 1460 Mt under Phek district during the “Year of Farmers,” said Imtitemjen, District Agriculture Phek. Earlier, SDAO, Pfutsero Sanuno Nienu, chaired the function. Altogether, 15 Mt of Ginger seeds and others were distributed to the farmers.
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