Due to the lack of growth in agricultural production in the state, gimmicks cannot increase agricultural production, said Arvindkashan, a well-known academic. He was speaking at the inauguration of the Pokkali rice crop in a field of Maruvakad paddy group of Chellanam panchayat in Chandu Manjadiparambil on Sunday. Pro. Aravindhakshan was referring to a recent event in which Agriculture Minister P. Prasad attended the Pokkali rice harvest festival in a field in which the entire crop was destroyed.
The eminent educationist said that the lack of development in agriculture would lead to unemployment. He pointed out that a “one fish, one rice” cycle was set for the Pokkali farms decades ago. The farming cycle helped those living close to the Pokkali rice fields. However, the fisheries lobby often arm-twisted the agriculture and fisheries departments to harass rice cultivation and, at the same time, deny the rights of fishermen. It has to be opposed, Prof. Arvindakshan said.
Francis Kalathingal, general secretary of the Pokkali Protection Committee, a group promoting the cultivation of the rice variety, presided over the meeting. A letter issued by the committee said that CR Neelakandan, social activist and member of Pallurathi block panchayat Sabu Thomas were among those who attended.