KOPPAL:
With rainfall remaining below expectations this season, Deputy Commissioner Suresh B. Itnal has directed officials to ensure all farmers in the district are covered under crop insurance.
Chairing a meeting with officials from agriculture and allied departments, the DC expressed concern over the unfavourable monsoon, warning that continued dry spells could severely impact farming activities. “Farmers should be enrolled under crop insurance in large numbers this year,” he stressed, instructing TS Rudreshappa, Joint Director of Agriculture, to compare figures with last year and intensify awareness campaigns.
In a forward-looking move, the DC also asked the Social Forestry Department to prepare for planting one lakh saplings across the district next year. He recommended plantation along roadways and within the compounds of hostels managed by the Social Welfare and Backward Classes Departments, after assessing their needs.
Zilla Panchayat CEO Varnith Negi, Additional DC Sidrameshwar, Deputy Director of Horticulture Krishna Ukkunda, and Deputy Forest Conservator Hussain Pendari were present at the meeting.
The push for insurance coverage and afforestation aims to protect livelihoods and promote sustainability amidst climate uncertainties.
