the goan I network
VASCO
The lone field at Belabai-Mestawado was abuzz with activity as a group of farmers began tilling their land on Thursday.
The tilling activity was launched by Mormugao Municipal Council (MMC) Councillor Krishna Daji Salkar in the presence of Ward 16 Councillor Rochna Borkar and others.
According to farmers, Salkar has been providing the necessary machinery to farmers for the past 10 years. Tractors for the tilling work and harvesting machines for the ready crop have been provided every year to the farmers.
“Since it is very difficult for us to get labour to work in the fields, the machinery has helped us save a lot of time and has also made our work easier,” said a farmer, Geeta Korgaonkar.
Speaking to the media Daji Salkar said the farmers had been approaching him for help since the last 10 years.
“I have been helping them in whatever way I can. Farming has been one of the most important yet underrated professions in our country and it is our duty to provide assistance to this community.”
“Land has been lost due to rapid building activity and the government has to provide farmers with some support, subsidies and schemes, so that they can earn a decent living.”
“The government has to come up with newer techniques in agriculture to encourage the youth to this noble profession,” said Salkar.
Asked to comment on the Nullah water entering the fields, Salkar said he had already spoken to the WRD Department.
“According to WRD sources, water had seeped into the fields because the Nullah had not been cleaned for three years. Cleaning of the gutter will be taken up,” said Salkar.
Councillor Borkar also thanked Salkar for having helped the people from her ward and appreciated his efforts to the
farming community.
