Prepare early for Rabi crops, scientist advises farmers

Cuttack, Oct 17:

Saying that there is very little chance to retrieve the kharif paddy after the destruction of fields by cyclone and floods, an agricultural scientist has suggested early preparation for Rabi crops.

All varieties of pulses and oil crops like groundnut and mustard with vegetables like potato could be grown in cyclone and flood affected areas from early November after water drains out, Director of Central Rice Research Institute (CRRI) Dr T Mohapatra said.

Five teams of scientists from the institute will extensively tour affected areas to study the exact nature of damage and suggest requirements after assessing the situation locally, Mohapatra said.

He said each team would consist of a plant breeder, a plant physiologist and a member of the crop production unit of the institute.

“The teams visiting the cyclone affected areas would submit their findings within seven days with reports from those in flood affected areas are expected within a fortnight,” Mohapatra said.

When asked whether there was any chance to revive the paddy crop, Mohapatra appeared uncertain. (PTI)