SHILLONG, March 4: A total of 209 farmers under the Dadenggre C&RD Block and 467 farmers under the Rongram C&RD Block have been affected by bud rot disease in areca nut trees.
Responding to a question raised by TMC MLA from Dadenggre, Rupa R Marak, on whether the department is aware of the bud rot disease affecting areca nut trees in these blocks, Minister in charge of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Ampareen Lyngdoh, confirmed that they are aware of the issue.
Regarding steps taken to prevent the disease from spreading further, Lyngdoh stated that farmers are being sensitized about the disease and its control measures. These include burning affected plants, promoting crop diversification, and maintaining proper sanitation in plantation areas.
She further informed that since bud rot disease is prevalent in other areas as well, the Directorate of Horticulture has collaborated with ICAR, the Meghalaya Basin Management Agency, scientists from the Central Plantation Crops Research Institute, and other experts.
Based on their findings and recommendations, Lyngdoh said an advisory leaflet outlining preventive and remedial measures for the disease has been prepared and will be distributed to areca nut farmers.
