The ever dwindling availability of agricultural land in Manipur valley is a rising cause for alarm to food security in the State. Selling of arable land to outside people and construction of buildings and houses in the areas being major causes of the problem, the Indigenous People’s Association of Kangleipak (IPAK) is set to hold 4 days Residential Camp cum Awareness program under the theme “Save Paddy Land” at four valley districts of Manipur viz Imphal East & West, Bishnupur and Thoubal in an effort to address the issue.
Sapamcha Jadumani, Chairman IPAK told media persons at a press conference at its office that out of total area of 22,327 SqKm, only 10% comprises of valley area with a little portion of its 3% being arable land. But due to continuous conversion of the arable land into establishment of business set up, construction of buildings and houses on one hand while selling out of such lands to non indigenous and outsiders being another major threat.
At this hour, he said people of our state need to understand the ground situation, in connection with that Street Plays, group discussions and other awareness activities will be held at all Municipality and Nagar Panchayat areas in the four districts during the four days.
He further appealed the people of Manipur to come out and co-ordinate the program to make it a success.