Karnataka MPs call on Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, discuss issues of areca growers

Mangaluru: A delegation of MPs from Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, Uttara Kannada and Shivamogga met Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Wednesday and discussed the issues faced by the arecanut farmers in the region.

DK MP Capt Brijesh Chowta said "We discussed the problems faced by distraught arecanut, who face issues each season due to the leaf spot disease and yellow leaf disease among others."

In his X handle, Capt Chowta posted "In the letter, I also sought the support and assistance of the Minister to encourage coffee cultivation as an alternative and for provision of institutional support, technical guidance, subsidies, and access to quality saplings to facilitate it."

He further said "We sought immediate funding and support for research into disease-resistant arecanut varieties and effective pest control methods. There is a need to promote Indian-led research on arecanut's safety and benefits when consumed responsibly, and conduct public awareness campaigns to address misconceptions."

Further, he said that he has urged the minister to provide necessary institutional support, including subsidies, training, and market access for cultivation in Dakshina Kannada. Support was also sought to develop nurseries, processing units, and training facilities to support coffee farmers.

"I also drew the attention of the minister to a project proposal that has been submitted for the implementation of integrated pest management, farmer training, and research into disease-resistant varieties," said Capt Chowta.

The delegation comprised Udupi-Chikmagaluru MP Kota Srinivas Poojary, Uttara Kannada MP Vishweshwar Hegde Kageri, Shivamogga MP B Y Raghavendra and DK MP Capt Brijesh Chowta.