Protect crops from grazing: CM
‘Roka-Cheka’ is an old tradition in Chhattisgarh’s villages to protect the crops by restricting open grazing by animals, and even today this is very useful for crop protection, Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel said on Sunday.
Addressing the farmers, he requested Panchs and Sarpanchs, farmers and villagers to make arrangements for Roka-Cheka in the villages till June 19 so that protection of crops can be ensured.
Baghel said farmers have begun preparations for farming. Those having irrigation facilities have started planting saplings while some have sprayed paddy seeds or getting ready for it. Not only paddy, but oilseeds and pulses are also being grown, he said.
“The first installment of Rajiv Gandhi Kisan Nyaya Yojana has been transferred to the farmers. The second installment will be transferred on 20th of August, the birth anniversary of Rajivji,” Baghel said.
On the need for protection of crops, he said: “As the spourts start to arrive, the cattle graze it, leading to heavy losses. Using the traditional system, the cattle can be restrained.
“The Pahatiya people graze cattle under their care. This work takes place at different times in different villages. As soon as we make arrangements for Roka-Cheka of Garuva, crops will be safe. I request you that by the 19th you should meet in the village and make arrangements for Roka-Cheka.”
Highlighting the flagship programme, he said: “We have given a slogan ‘Chhattisgarh ke Chaar Chinhaari, Narva-Garuva-Ghuruva-Bari’. This year we have created a project for 1,300 canals to protect and revive Narva. Structures have been erected. We will continue this scheme next year also.
“Many works have been done under MGNREGA, including Gauthan construction works. So far, around 2,200 Gothans have been built, 2,800 are under construction and will be completed very soon.”
