PANAJI
Assuring to repair the irrigation distribution network, WRD Minister Subhash Shirodkar has said water from the Selaulim Dam will be released for irrigation purposes on November 15.
“The government is taking steps to motivate farmers who have left farming. The Selaulim Dam was built for irrigation system to help farmers. Initially, there were 110 agriculture societies in the area and now, only 52 societies are left with only 1,500 farmers affiliated to them. All 110 societies should be revived,” said Shirodkar.
Speaking to media persons, Shirodkar said a review meeting was convened in Selaulim area about 15 days ago, which was attended by prominent farmers, social workers, political workers, panch, zilla panchayat councillors along with PWD Minister Nilesh Cabral.
"It was decided at the meeting that water from the Selaulim Dam would be released in canals for irrigation purposes. November 15 is the target set to release water. Before that, repairs of all canals will be completed,” said Shirodkar.
Shirodkar said farmers from Curchorem, Cacora, Quepem, Balli and Cuncolim areas would benefit with water from the Selaulim Dam.
“A farmers meet (Mahotsav) will be organised along with the agriculture minister and PWD minister. The agriculture department and PWD will also be involved in the farmer awareness drive," said Shirodkar.
"Many farmers have left farming and we will motivate them to come back. Machines and other facilities can be given to these farmers to promote farming. During the Covid pandemic, many people took to farming activity and the government needs to continue this mindset,” said Shirodkar.
