Odisha Jan Morcha chief Pyarimohan Mohapatra on Thursday called upon all to fight together the problem of ongoing farmer suicides in the State.
“Farmer suicides in the State have turned into a killer problem. loan burden caused by crop loss and possible weak finance condition are compelling farmers to loss their mental balance. The Government as well as all others should think to resolve this problem as it has emerged as a social issue rather than a political one,” said Mohapatra in a statement.
He said the measures the State Government has taken by now are insufficient to provide mental support to the farmers. He suggested that the farmers need to be given hundred per cent employments under the MGNREGS as they can’t wait for another farm produce to meet the present loss. If farmers and their other family members are engaged in other works during non-cultivation period, their economic standard would be stronger and they can withstand losses. Schemes for animal rearing, poultry and other related programmes should be introduced on war-footing, suggested Mohapatra.
“It is disappointing that the Centre has stopped grants of Rs 40 crore for a State Plan of Rs 46 crore and on the plea of non-availability of Central grant the State Government has stopped the scheme altogether,” rued Mohapatra.
Mohapatra further suggested that the Government should make a plan to conserve water for farm lands under the MGNREGS. He said as the farmer suicide is a sensitive issue the State Government should take timely action and all irrespective of party lines should support the Government. He also urged upon all farmers to meet the situation with a strong mind.