MARGAO: Goyche Fuddle Pillge Khatir (GFPK) expressed concerns that the farming community and stakeholders are still in the dark about the State’s draft Agriculture Policy, prompting a demand for an extension of the submission deadline for suggestions and objections on the crucial policy. GFPK held a pivotal meeting in Margao on Tuesday to deliberate and finalise suggestions and objections for the proposed draft agricultural policy.
Eminent stakeholders, including experts like Elsa Fernandes and J. Santano Rodrigues, engaged in discussions regarding the policy’s impact.Representatives from farming communities in Thivim, Velsao, Sao Jose de Areal, Curtorim, Agasaim, and other localities attended the meeting.
Following the gathering, GFPK President Jack Mascarenhas informed O Heraldo that on Wednesday, August 16, their delegation plans to visit the concerned department to petition for an extension of the deadline. He highlighted the short time frame provided, noting that many farmers and stakeholders need more time to understand its implications.
Additionally, they emphasised the need for a comprehensive land use policy to ensure the protection of agricultural land. With nearly 99 points in the draft agricultural policy requiring careful consideration, Mascarenhas highlighted the multi-faceted challenges faced by farmers, including changes in land use, fallow land issues, complexities in obtaining subsidies, and promotion of community farming.
