Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (EP)

Mangaluru, Feb 23: A discussion programme was held on the Yellow Leaf disease of Arecanut in the farm of Umashanker at Sampaje Thodikana. CPCRI scientists answered questions from growers in the discussion forum held by Campco and Sullia based Adike Belegarara Hitarakshana Vedike in the presence of Karnataka state government minister S Angara.

Nearly 300 farmers from Sullia, Sampaje, Thodikana, Chembu and other places worried about Yellow Leaf disease took part in the discussions. The scientists said that research on the disease is in progress but no solution is found yet. The farmers who borrowed money from banks for farming expressed inability and helplessness due to a sharp drop in the areca nut produce. The farmers requested the government to intervene and provide compensation.

The farmers also referred to the news about areca cancer saying that their lives depend on the areca nut cultivation and asked for the causes of Areca nut disease that was unheard for generations. The farmers said that further research is needed by the government to solve the problem.

Minister Angara said that he too is an areca nut grower and he is aware of the gravity of the situation. He said that discussions will be held at the government level and suitable action will be taken. A decision to urge the government about repayment of the farm loans of affected farmers was taken. Campco officials assured that they are with the farmers as their voice in their hardship.

Manager Reshma Mallya, CPCRI scientists, agricultural science center, Mangaluru head, senior scientist Dr T J Ramesh, horticulture department officials, Puttur deputy commissioner Yathish Ullal were present. Adike Belegarara Hitarakshana Vedike members helped in holding the programme.