The Mizoram government, under the leadership of the Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM), has announced a plan to purchase four key agricultural products from local farmers. This initiative aims to uplift the farming community economically by ensuring fair prices and better market access.
Government’s Commitment to Farmers:
Agriculture Minister PC Vanlalruata revealed that the government will buy ginger, turmeric, chilli, and broomsticks from local farmers. This decision fulfills a poll promise made by the ZPM, which came to power in December last year.
Support Price and Market Linkage:
The government will set a support price for each crop to ensure farmers receive a fair income. Additionally, efforts will be made to arrange markets where farmers can sell their products at rates higher than the support price. Vanlalruata emphasized that market linkage is a priority and expects this process to be completed within three years.
Long-term Vision for Farmers:
After three years, farmers are anticipated to have direct contact with buyers, reducing the need for government intervention. To facilitate this transition, a database will be developed to track farmers and their expected annual crop yields.
Focus on Ginger Production:
According to an assessment, over 10 lakh quintals of ginger are expected to be produced by farmers across the state next year. The government plans to float tenders through local agricultural societies to find buyers, especially for ginger. Agreements will also be made with large companies to ensure all produce is sold, as the tender or auction system alone may not suffice.
Setting Up Processing Plants:
Processing plants will be established for sorting, grading, and drying ginger. These facilities will also produce ginger paste and ale, a beverage made from ginger.
Encouraging Local Agricultural Societies:
Vanlalruata urged farmers to form Multipurpose Primary Agriculture Credit Societies (MPACS) in their villages. He emphasized that all processes related to buying and selling agricultural products will be executed through these local agriculture societies.
The ZPM’s decisive victory in the state assembly polls last December has paved the way for these progressive agricultural policies. The government’s initiative to purchase and support the sale of ginger, turmeric, chilli, and broomsticks is expected to significantly benefit Mizoram’s farming community, ensuring better income and market stability.