Manipur stares at food shortage as ethnic violence affects farmingAgriculture 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. Department of Agriculture Director N Gojendro told PTI 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.Farmers fear that there might be a shortage of locally grown ‘Meitei Rice’, leading to price rise next year, if farming is not carried out in full swing in all areas by the end of this month. While some farmers in the outlying areas of Imphal are tending to their fields despite fear of being shot at by militants from the nearby hills, many are abstaining from farming in the peak season for fear of their lives.