Jagraon, January 31
A camp was held here today in which farmers were educated and encouraged to adopt alternative crops under contract farming. The district has the distinction of achieving the highest acreage under contract farming during the season. Sunflower and spring maize have been promoted as spring crops by the Punjab Agro, which is the nodal department for this purpose.
Addressing the gathering, Mr Sumer Singh, Additional Deputy Commissioner (Development), said under the scheme, the Punjab Agro would provide good quality seed of reputed companies for higher yields, thus improving the economic condition of farmers.
He emphasised that it was very important that farmers got an assured price for their produce and urged them to adopt contract farming for better returns.
Mr Sumer Singh interacted with them and listened to their problems and assured them that the Department of Agriculture would take necessary measures so that farmers get good quality of pesticides.
Mr N.K. Sharma, Regional Manager, Punjab Agro, informed the farmers that a written contract would be signed with the farmers showing its commitment to buy the produce at the determined price which was agreed upon by both parties at the time of sowing itself. He said more such camps would be organised in the district. The next camp would be organised here on February 4.
Dr Sahota explained the detailed agronomy of sunflower and spring maize to farmers.
Mr S.S. Bassi, Senior District Manager, Punjab Agro, informed that this was a multi-year and multi-crop programme. Farm and industry would be linked together to make diversification a success. Sunflower seed of reputed companies like Pioneer, Mansanto and Adventa were being supplied to farmers.
The camp was attended by more than 200 farmers of the Jagraon area besides officers of the Department of Agriculture.
