Assam minister Pijush Hazarika launches community paddy sowing drive for flood-hit farmers in Charaideo

Assam Minister Pijush Hazarika on Sunday, August 2, inaugurated a community paddy seed-sowing programme in Charaideo district aimed at helping farmers affected by the recent floods resume cultivation and recover from crop losses.
 

The programme, organised by the Charaideo District Agriculture Department in association with Moran MLA Suruj Dihingia, was held at the Khilaguri High School playground in Moran. Hazarika launched the sowing of the CR Dhan-310 paddy variety in a community nursery.
 

Addressing the media, the minister said the initiative was part of the state government's efforts to assist flood-affected farmers and restore agricultural activities in the worst-hit areas.
 

He said the government has already provided interim financial assistance of Rs 15,000 and Rs 10,000 to affected farmers. Based on the final assessment of crop losses, compensation may subsequently be enhanced to Rs 1.5 lakh to Rs 2 lakh, wherever applicable.
 

Hazarika also said the government has waived one year's land revenue and one month's electricity bills for people affected by the floods.
 

For areas that continue to remain submerged, the minister said the government is preparing plans to promote the cultivation of rabi crops and horticultural produce once floodwaters recede.
 

He further said families whose houses were damaged during the floods have been provided with 20 to 30 sheets of roofing tin, along with bamboo, thatching materials and clothing, to support reconstruction efforts.
 

Responding to criticism by Leader of the Opposition Akhil Gogoi over the government's flood response, Hazarika said people were satisfied with the relief measures undertaken by the state. He also assured that construction of the proposed 20-km embankment from Simoluguri to Bihubar would begin once land required for the project is made available.
 

"The government will never leave people to fend for themselves during natural disasters such as floods. We will continue to stand by them and extend all possible support," the minister said.
 

The programme was also attended by Moran MLA Suruj Dihingia and Rajya Sabha MP Jogen Mohan.