IT News
Imphal, Aug 7:
Agriculture Minister Th. Bishwajit today urged local clubs and civil society organizations (CSOs) to familiarize themselves with the Conservation of Paddy Land and Wetland Protection Act, 2014, to enhance its effectiveness in protecting agricultural lands. He emphasized the necessity of local participation in reinforcing the Act during a discussion and voting session on the Agriculture Department’s budget.
During the session, Congress MLA Lokeshwar criticized the lack of implementation of existing legislation aimed at preserving agricultural land. He highlighted the importance of protecting agricultural land to ensure food security for future generations. Lokeshwar expressed concerns over agricultural lands being converted for other uses, such as brick fields and housing, and stressed the need for proper planning to balance development and agricultural preservation. He urged the Agriculture Minister to classify fertile agricultural land as a top priority to prevent non-agricultural construction and inquired about schemes to incentivize high-yield farmers.
In response, Agriculture Minister Th. Biswajit acknowledged the loss of agricultural land, particularly in the Imphal valley. He mentioned that the agricultural census conducted in 2021-22 showed an increase in agricultural land, partly due to expansion into hill areas. Bishwajit detailed measures under the Conservation of Paddy Land and Wetland Protection Act, 2014, which include penalties for violations and the establishment of monitoring committees. He reported that 1,473 cases of unauthorized structures on agricultural land were identified, with 1,172 cases taken up by the Revenue Department. Notices were served to 945 violators, resulting in the seizure of 67 vehicles and other materials.
Following the discussion, Congress MLA withdrew the policy cut motion, and a budget allocation of Rs. 378,87,83,000 was granted for the financial year ending March 31, 2025.
