Irate green chilli farmers on Friday set fire to the virus-infected crop in the field as a mark of protest and seeking action against the suppliers of the seedlings in Mopidevi mandal in Krishna district.
The preliminary investigation conducted by the horticulture officials has shown that chilli crop in nearly 200 acres has been infected with virus, leaving the farmers in distress. The total extent of green chilli crop is more than 500 acres in Mopidevi mandal alone.
Mopidevi horticulture officer Y. Rajasekhar said it has been identified that two varieties - 006 Tokito and VNR 145 - have been affected with the virus severely.
The farmers from Nagayatippa, Mopidevi Lanka and Kosurupalem have bought the green chilli seedlings from private nurseries in Nuzvid and surrounding areas in the district and Karnataka.
Inquiry
On learning about the crop failure, Deputy Speaker Mandali Buddha Prasad has directed the agriculture officials to investigate the matter.
District agriculture Joint Director Mohana Rao told The Hindu that a team of scientists from the Y.S.R. Horticulture University (West Godavari) would conduct an inquiry to identify the reasons for the failure of the seedlings.
Bills sought
The farmers have been told to produce documents or receipts pertaining to the purchase of the green chilli seedlings from the private nurseries to initiate action on the suppliers based on scientific observations.
