Tamil Nadu - Udhagamandalam   

Ensure fertilizer supply

Udhagamandalam: In making available fertilizers, the government should use a different yard stick for the Nilgiris, said the Nilgiris Potato and Vegetable Growers Association president, B. Krishnamoorthy.

Pointing out that the terrain and weather pattern of the Nilgiris were in many ways different from those in the plains, he said in a letter sent to the Agriculture Minister that if fertilizers were not made available in time the farming community would be subjected to considerable hardship.

Stating that the crops here were different from those in the plains, he said that the seasons in which they were sown or harvested also differed. If the Khadai Bhoghum crop was not sown by the end of July or early in August, it would be badly affected by frost.

Hence, it should be ensured that the fertilizer requirements of the farmers here were met on time. The government should set aside its policies and rules and initiate steps immediately to help farmers of the Nilgiris.

Potato cultivation cannot be taken up without a fertilizer base. Hence high priority should be accorded to helping the potato growers. Tea gardens also are in need of fertilizers.

Mr. Krishnamoorthy apprehended that if farmers do not get sufficient fertilizers on time,they may take to the streets.

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