From Our Special Correspondent
NEW DELHI: Union Minister of State for Water Resources and Minority Affairs Vincent H Pala has urged the government agencies like NERMAC to bridge the gap between farmers producing variety of fruits, spices and cash crops in the landlocked North-East and buyers sitting far away.
“North-East produces a variety of fruits like pineapple, orange, kiwi, lemons and spices like ginger, turmeric, cardamom, black pepper, bay leaves and chilies. But due to factors like distant markets and inadequate logistics farmers find it very difficult to market their produce,” he said at the valedictory function of ‘The Great North East Sun-Shine Festival’ organised by NERAMAC here.
“There were occasions when the farmers did not even harvest their produces as the cost was more than the sales realization. Private entrepreneurs were practically absent,” Pala said.
“This urgently needs intervention of government agencies like NERMAC,” the Minister said adding “I am happy that NERAMAC is intervening with a view to help farmers get remunerative price.”
“It is essential to popularise these products by showcasing them appropriately,” the Minister said adding “the attempt of NERAMAC in organizing the week-long festival focusing exclusively on the North-East products is in right direction,” he said.
