The inability to utilize the fund sponsored by Japan International Co-operation (JICA) for taking up Sericulture project in the state has shattered the dreams of the state Sericulture farmers.
According to an official document available with the Imphal Times it has been stated that the amount of rupees 5000 lakhs will be surrendered by the government of Manipur as it cannot be utilized till the end of November 2015. In a report submitted by W.Ibohal Singh, Director of Sericulture Manipur to the State government Finance department, it is stated that the fund could not be utilized as the JICA was unwilling to continue the project due to security reason. (Imphal Times has reported this matter on it Dec. 27 issue)
The report seems to contradict with that of the state home department which said that the law and order condition of the state is improving. JICA sponsored Sericulture project has been there in the state since a long time back and even the 1st phase of the project has been completed. The fund that is talking here is probably about the implementation of the 2nd phase project, which began after the law and order problems in the state was reported to have been improved. The law and order situation was no better when the first phase Sericulture project was funded by JICA and implemented in the state.
Speaking to this reporter, an official of the Sericulture department said that the real reason for inability to utilize the fund is because of the tussle between the directorate of the Sericulture department and the Minister in charge of the department over selection of beneficiaries.
Meanwhile, Sericulture farmers of the state have expressed dissatisfaction to the rebound of the fund as their dream has been shattered.