VASCO
Farmers in Velsao-Pale are facing severe agricultural challenges after several banana plantations were found infested with the Bunchy Top disease, while many paddy fields suffered damage due to recent unseasonal rains.
The dual blow has raised concern among local cultivators who rely heavily on these crops for their livelihood.
Velsao Panch member Jim D’Souza, who has been actively engaging with local farmers, said he had requested the agriculture department to conduct an on-ground inspection to assess the extent of the damage.
“Farmers in our village have been struggling for the past few weeks. The sudden rains flattened many paddy fields, and banana crops started showing unusual signs. I requested the agriculture officers to visit the area and guide our farmers before the situation worsens,” D’Souza said.
Following his request, Assistant Agriculture Officer Mahesh Kankonkar, ATM Pranali Raikar, Mayur Prabhudesai and officials from the Zonal Agriculture Office, Mormugao, visited Velsao village and carried out a detailed inspection of the affected plots.
The team observed that a large number of banana plants were affected by the Bunchy Top disease, a viral infection that severely stunts plant growth and reduces yield.
During the visit, the officers interacted with several farmers, examined the infected leaves and pseudostems, and explained how the disease spreads through infected planting material and aphid vectors.
The team also inspected nearby paddy fields, many of which were seen lodging due to heavy unseasonal rains that lashed the area recently. The officers explained that such conditions could lead to reduced grain filling and poor harvest if not managed in time. They suggested steps to prevent further damage.
“The officers gave practical advice and shared preventive measures to control the disease and reduce losses. They also assured that the department will continue to support our farmers through guidance and field visits,” said D’Souza, expressing gratitude to the agriculture team for responding promptly to the villagers’ concerns.
He appealed to farmers to stay alert and follow the recommendations issued by the agriculture department to safeguard their standing crops.
“It’s important that all farmers take timely action. Working together with the department, we can overcome this setback and protect our fields,” D’Souza added.
