POINGUINNIM: The 3,200 hectares of cultivable land covered under paddy cultivation in Canacona taluka, is in the final stages of cultivation.

Of the total cultivation carried out in this Kharif season, 80 per cent paddy is sown through transplantation while the remaining 20 per cent is done by direct sowing.

ZAO Canacona, Mr Rajesh Desai while speaking to ‘The Navhind Times’ said that this year the rainfall is well distributed and as such a good yield is expected. Despite the heavy rains, there was no flooding which was a good sign to bring more area under cultivation, which otherwise was left fallow. Because of good rain the farmers in Canacona were happy to bring more area under paddy cultivation this season.

Along with the required paddy seeds, the power-tillers are also now easily available as more farmers have purchased such machines and this could be a boost for the farmers to be more inclined towards agriculture and allied activities.

Mr Desai felt that paddy seeds were available on time and in required quantity and this could be the other reason for majority of the farmers getting into this business.

Due to seed treatment campaign organized by ZAO, Canacona this season, the confidence level of the farmers has increased for taking up farming activities, as it ensures better protection for crops against the likely diseases.

Moreover, supply of fertilizers was also available in time and in required quantity.

The paddy transplantation work which began last week is nearing completion, informed Mr Desai and hence the farmers should expect a good yield this season if no other natural calamity occurs.

Mr Desai further urged the farmers to produce the bills of repairs of water pumps that have been damaged during the October 2009 floods, so that the same are to be forwarded on priority to the Department of Agriculture for early follow up.