Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi

New Delhi, Feb 8: In an effort to find a lasting solution to the challenges faced by arecanut farmers in Dakshina Kannada (DK), MP Capt Brijesh Chowta met union minister for commerce and industry Piyush Goyal and held discussions on the issue.

Arecanut farmers in the region are struggling due to unchecked imports of arecanut from foreign countries without proper inspection. This has led to unfair price competition, making it difficult for local farmers to get a fair market price for their produce. Chowta urged the minister to impose stricter controls on arecanut imports to ensure stable market rates for domestic farmers.

With the increasing prevalence of diseases like rot and leaf spot in arecanut crops, farmers in Dakshina Kannada are facing significant hardships. In light of this, Chowta requested the minister to take steps to promote coffee cultivation as an alternative crop in the district.

He also highlighted a recent Coffee Board survey regarding coffee cultivation in Dakshina Kannada and informed the minister that he had raised questions about it in Parliament. To further support coffee farmers and increase awareness about the crop’s potential, he urged the minister to direct the Coffee Board to establish an office in Mangaluru.

Union minister Piyush Goyal assured Chowta of full support for his initiatives, including the ‘Back to Village’ campaign aimed at attracting investment to Dakshina Kannada. The minister expressed his commitment to promoting innovative ideas that would benefit farmers and the local economy.