Jowai, Sept 9: An Interactive programme with Producer Groups under Farmer Collectivisation for Up-scaling Production and Marketing System (FOCUS) was held at the District Library Auditorium, Mynthong, Jowai on Thursday which was attended by P.K. Boro, the Additional Deputy Commissioner and Project Director DRDA, West Jaiñtia Hills as the Chief Guest.The Programme was also attended by producers’ groups from the three C&RD Blocks -Amlarem, Thadlaskein and Laskein.Speaking to the farmers, Boro encouraged the farmers to make use of the assistance provided by the state government in a productive manner, to upscale their knowledge and to carry out farming work without any hesitation.He requested the NGO partners SURE and Chankylliang Development Society to guide and train the farmers on how to enhance their productivity.Starwell Paduna, Assistant Manager, Amlarem Block in his presentation on the concept of FOCUS highlighted the objectives of the programme. He informed that under this program Rs. 5000 will be provided to the registered farmers and the financial assistance provided is not a loan but an assistance to help farmers to upscale their farming and income.
He also informed that under Amlarem C&RD Block there are 48 Producer Groups, Laskein C&RD – 52 Producer groups and under Thadlaskein – 68 Producer Groups.