Manipur stares at food shortage as ethnic violence affects farming

Agriculture-notes-for-state-psc-exams”>Agriculture has been affected in Manipur as many farmers are unable to tend to their fields due to the ongoing ethnic violence, and if the situation does not improve, food production in the northeastern state will be affected, a senior official said on Wednesday. Department of Agriculture Director N Gojendro told that farmers were unable to cultivate at least 5,127 hectares of agricultural land, leading to a loss of 15,437.23 metric tonnes till June 28.

Adding to our woes is the rainfall deficiency this year. Last year, heavy rain had flooded paddy fields in May-end, whereas this year, there has been less rain. The scorching sun dries the ground, making cultivation difficult,” he said. ‘Meitei Rice’ needs a lot of water for cultivation. It has high starch and Carbohydrates. Chief Minister N Biren Singh had earlier said that 2,000 state forces have been deployed in sensitive areas to patrol and provide security to farmers during cultivation.