Despite the Government’s plan to boost the declining agricultural sector, Williamsville farmers are still facing hardships to get their produce out of their fields and into the markets. During a tour of the Corial Road farming community yesterday, several farmers said agricultural access roads were becoming impassable because of landslips. Hundreds of cucumbers, pumpkins, paw paw and bottle gourd, or laukie, were seen rotting in the fields because of the farmers inability to get to their crops. At Corial Branch Road, farmers said they had no choice but to transport water in barrels to nourish their crops.
Ramsumair Hanuman said: “We have not had water in this area. Farmers catching real hell. I have 3,000 pounds of laukie in my hands and I have no market for it.” He said in 2007 he invested $500,000 to purchase equipment for his fields but was now finding it difficult to make his $2,000 monthly loan installment. “If I had my education I would not be in this position now. It is a hard life and I struggle every day with my son in the fields. We facing so much losses,” Hanuman said. He called on Food Production minister Devant Maharaj to assist in providing a ready market for his produce.
“Not much people know about laukie or how to cook it. It is one of the ignored vegetables but the ministry could educate people about it. When I take it to the market, most people do not know what it is,” Hanuman added.
Holding a laukie more than three feet tall, Hanuman also said it was unusual for laukie to grow so big. Contacted yesterday, Food Production minister Devant Maharaj said he was unaware of the farmer’s concerns. “They have not contacted me and it is the first time I am hearing about it.
Budget plans
In the 2014/2015 budget, Finance minister Larry Howai said the Government planned to raise productivity and production among farmers. He said at the centre of Government’s agricultural policy is the National Food Action Plan 2012-2015. Howai also said fines for predial larceny will be increased.
What is Laukie?
In an article published in the Times of India it was said that laukie or bottle gourd contains mostly 92 per cent of water and is easily digestible fiber. Benefits include weight loss and reductions of the inflammations in the liver and kidneys. It also helps in easing constipation. The water and fiber in the bottle gourd make the digestive system free and active. Laukie helps to treat urinary tract infection. A fresh bottle gourd juice mixed with fresh lime juice is the best remedy for the urinary infections. Ancient Ayurveda says that bottle gourd prevents premature graying hair. Sesame oil when mixed with bottle gourd juice helps to cure problems of insomnia. (http://www.texilaconnect.com/amazing-10-health-benefits-of-bottle-gourd/) (http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/diet/Benefi...)
