Staff Reporter

Margao

The Velim MLA Cruz Silva, on Friday, said that Chinchinim village will be developed as model agricultural village, and the village is heading in the right direction with more farmers coming forward to revive agriculture.

Speaking after inspecting the Durga agriculture farm project, Silva said that the Durga farm land is being revived after 33 years.

He said the government could set an example by cultivating its own fields which have been lying fallow for so many years.

He said this year, around 20,000 square metres of land will be brought under cultivation as against less than 3,000 square metres which was cultivated last year.

He said that “agriculture has seen a big boost after the revival of the Digaband project. Many people are coming forward and seeking help to revive their fields.”

He said, “The Chinchinim Farmers Club led by Agnelo Furtado is doing its bit to help the farmers while there is tremendous support from Fr. George Quadros, agriculture department and water resource department.”

He further said that he “is confident that Chinchinim village will be developed as a model agricultural village. Community farming is also spreading to other parts of the constituency. More farmers clubs are being set up at Sarzora and Sao Jose de Areal.”

Replying to a query, on other areas in the village being brought under agriculture, he said, “We have also carried out inspection in Sucaldem to revive agriculture but the farmers are facing difficulty due to damages to the bundh system. Nearly, 40,000 odd square meters will brought under agriculture this season in various parts of Chinchinim.”