Farmers in Morjim have renewed their demand for a dedicated fertilizer distribution facility, citing ongoing hardship due to the closure of the local godown run by the Pedne Taluka Society. The godown has remained shut for the past three years, forcing local cultivators to travel long distances—up to 15 km—to Pedne, Mapusa, or even Aronda in Maharashtra, spending as much as ₹700 on rickshaw fare.
Speaking at a public gathering, local farmers Roshan Shetgaonkar, Ravindranath Shetgaonkar, and Gurudas Shetgaonkar highlighted the increasing burden on the agricultural community. While fertilizer supply continues at society outlets in Mandrem and Agarwada, frequent stock shortages often leave farmers returning empty-handed, they said.
The farmers also proposed measures to reduce fertilizer costs, including using unbranded sacks or reintroducing packaging that features images of traditional farming tools or farmers using ploughs—designs previously used in government-distributed fertilizers.
A formal request has been made to local MLA Jit Arolkar to raise the matter in the Goa Legislative Assembly and appeal to the Agriculture Minister for the immediate re-establishment of a fertilizer godown under the Agriculture Department in Morjim.
The farming community believes that a dedicated facility would not only lower input costs but also ensure timely access to essential agricultural supplies critical for their livelihood.