The authorities have compiled the figure for Narayanpur - country's one of the worst Naxal-infested districts reportedly housing the headquarters of the red army in otherwise inaccessible and unexplored Abujmand area. The agricultural activities in the area living under the shadow of guns had been increasing.
"In the last 6 years, the land brought under agricultural operations has increased from 54,000 hectares to 66,000 hectare," a senior agriculture department official said. People are taking both Kharif and Rabi crops in the district.
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The official said the distribution of seeds for Rabi and Kharif crops had also increased from 683 quintals to 737 quintals over the period. About 500 irrigation pumps were also distributed for irrigation to farmers who are also taking vegetables under the state-sponsored Shaakambri Yojana.
The state government is also making efforts to encourage farmers to utilise their own water resources and natural water sources. Small and medium farmers who use 0.5 to 5 Horse Power pumps are given a loan of Rs 16,875. They are also given high technology equipment to boost the farming sector. About 17,000 hand operated and 68 power operated agriculture equipment were distributed from 2008-09 to 2014-15. The official added that there had been a rapid expansion of irrigation facilities to protect farmers from the Natural calamities. About 80 tube-wells were installed and 165 sprinkler sets were distributed under the minor irrigation project. Financial assistance was provided for the installation of tube-wells to 75 farmers.
The authorities have set up two Krishi Seva Kendras to provide assistance to the farmers. Agriculture College will be started from the coming academic year 2015-16.