Imphal, March 07 2009: Agents marketing agricultural seeds, fertilizers, pesticides etc in Manipur converged today at Singjamei Oinam Thingel for the Agents Meet 2009. The meeting held on the theme "Role of Agents in Farmers' Awareness on New Generation Agro-chemical and Seeds in Manipur was graced by Agriculture Director RK Nayansana and former Deputy Director of the same Department N Dhiren as chief guest and functional president respectively.

Sericulture Director K Thaibemma and Fishery Director K Saratkumar were guests of honour of the meet held under the aegis of OI and Bros of Thangal Bazar.

Speaking as a resource person at the meeting, Senior Assistant Professor of CAU Dr Kh Ibohal said that agents/shopkeepers dealing agro-chemicals, pesticides etc should explain in details the methods, doses and the kind of chemical that should be applied to plants infected by diseases when a farmer comes to buy it.

Observing that the greater crop yield recorded in Kakching area is because of extensive use of fertilizer, Dr Ibohal cautioned against wanton use fertilizer.

He cited an instance where 500 people died of consuming pesticide treated vegetables in Warrangal, Andhra Pradesh in 2002. The agents' meet was also participated by representatives of agro-chemical companies based outside the State.

They were representing United Phosphorous Limited, Advanta India Golden Seeds, Unicorn Seeds, Geidrojan etc.

Comment