What’s inside:
This article talks about the challenges faced by farmers of Gobind Bhog Rice in Kaimur, Bihar, particularly due to fertilizer shortages and market issues.
Kaimur district in Bihar is known for its famous Gobind Bhog Rice, especially grown in Mokri village. This rice is cherished by many, including in Ayodhya where it is offered to Lord Ram. However, the farmers are currently struggling due to a shortage of urea fertilizer, which is crucial for their crops.
In the past, farmers cultivated Gobind Bhog Rice in about 100 hectares of land, but now, due to various challenges, they are only able to farm on 25 hectares. This decline is concerning, as it affects both the farmers’ income and the availability of this special rice.
Farmers feel neglected by the government, which seems to focus more on crops like Makhana. They mention that when they harvest their rice, it is priced at around 40 rupees per kilogram, but middlemen sell it for much higher prices, sometimes up to 150 rupees. This leaves farmers feeling frustrated and underpaid for their hard work.
Moreover, the cooperative department does not support them by purchasing their rice. The lack of affordable fertilizers further complicates their farming situation. As a result, many farmers are now forced to switch to different rice varieties instead of continuing with Gobind Bhog.
Despite these struggles, there is a tradition of sending Gobind Bhog Rice to Ayodhya for worship. Farmers believe that if they received support from the Bihar government, they would be more inclined to continue producing this aromatic and beloved rice.
Summary:
- Kaimur’s Gobind Bhog Rice is facing production challenges.
- Farmers have reduced their cultivation area significantly.
- Government support is lacking, affecting their income.
- Middlemen profit more than farmers from rice sales.
- Farmers wish for better support to continue this tradition.
