What needs to change to alleviate farmers?

Open Letter: We kindly request the government to take immediate action in response to the demand from people's organisations in Odisha, ensuring the timely availability of quality seeds to farmers before the Rabi season (latest Oct 15)

8 July 2023.

Letter from the farmers.

Dear CMO /Agriculture Ministery

We are writing to bring to your attention an urgent matter concerning the agricultural sector in Odisha. People's organisations from various parts of the state have come together and are currently organising meetings and raising a significant demand. They are calling for immediate action from the Government to ensure the timely availability of quality seeds to farmers before the upcoming Rabi season, with a deadline of 15th October.

As you may be aware, the Rabi season is crucial to farmers' livelihoods in Odisha. It is a critical period for sowing crops like rice, millet, pulses, and oilseeds. This season's success greatly depends on the availability of high-quality seeds suitable for the local climatic conditions and can yield a good yield.

As you are aware, farmers in the region have been consistently confronted with challenges in accessing quality seeds, particularly due to erratic rainfall. This has significantly declined their harvests, making cultivating a second crop crucial for their sustenance and income. The current situation severely impedes their productivity and financial well-being. Therefore, it is imperative that the Government takes immediate action to address this issue effectively.

We want to know if the Government plans to provide seeds by October, if there are any notifications or government decisions to include left-out farmers in the Krushak portal, and the Government's strategy and budgetary provisions to create irrigation assets.

By ensuring the timely availability of quality seeds, the Government can provide the necessary support to farmers and contribute to the growth and prosperity of the agricultural sector in Odisha. Their inclusion will enable farmers to make informed decisions regarding crop selection, optimise their resources, and maximise productivity.

We sincerely hope that the Government will consider this matter seriously and initiate prompt action to meet the demands of the people's organisations. The timely availability of quality seeds will empower farmers and contribute to the overall development and well-being of the state's agricultural sector.

Thank you for your attention to this matter. You will consider the best interests of the farmers and take the necessary steps to ensure their prosperity.

Yours faithfully,

12Baje 12 Minute

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