Locust Attack: DC B’la Chairs meeting, discusses measures for its prevention

Baramulla: In a significant move to prevent the probable locust attack on the agricultural crops in the district, Deputy Commissioner Baramulla Dr G N Itoo Friday chaired a meeting of various concerned officers to discuss various measures and to devise an action plan in this regard.
Meeting was attended by Chief Horticulture Officer, Chief Agriculture Officer, President Fruit Mundi Sopore, President Fruit growers association, representatives of pesticides/fertilizers association and other concerned functionaries.
On the occasion, a comprehensive discussion on the subject was held wherein DC stressed upon the concerned stakeholders to put in place a viable mechanism so that any kind of eventuality is averted. He stressed upon the pesticide dealers to ensure sufficient stock of requisite chemicals so that farmers may not face any inconvenience.
Meanwhile, various issues were also discussed during the meeting which includes regulation on rate and quality of pesticides, ban on early ripening chemicals and others vital issues of public importance.
Speaking on the occasion, DC directed the concerned agencies to ensure the ban of spurious pesticides in the market and unregistered dealers so that necessary action may be initiated against them.
Dr Itoo further said a viable mechanism shall be formulated so that marketing of early fruit varieties is not affected during the present circumstances. He assured the fruit growers of every possible assistance at this critical juncture. He said services of cold storage owners shall also be utilized for the purpose.
The meeting informed by Chief Agriculture Officer that a refrigerator van with the capacity of 90 quintals will be facilitated for the transportation of early fruit to the marketing points. He also added that a control room has been established in coordination with horticulture authorities.