Farmer information and advisory centre in shambles

FROM OUR SPECIAL CORRESPONDENT

Silchar, June 9: Lakhipur in Cachar district was declared a sub division 22 years ago and the main objective has been to bring the administration closer to the public. But, it is yet to take the shape of a full-fledged sub division. It is true various state government offices from the block level to the sub divisiol headquarters have been set up. But, it has been a common grievance from the people that most of these offices or departments have been functioning either erratically or existing only on paper without any benefits to the beneficiaries.

 One such glaring example is of the state run ‘Farmers’ Information and Advisory Centre’ in the development block of Banskandie under sub divisiol agriculture office of Lakhipur. This centre has been shown to be in operation from 2008-09. Local residents complain that this centre has been existing only in me. It was about six months ago that one officer was seen in the office. They also said for the last two years, no staff was found in and around.

As the centre was almost uncared for and neglected, its compound around has become a dumping ground for all sorts of wastages and garbage. The photograph is a telling tale of it. Moreover, the available space outside the office also has become an uuthorized auto-rickshaw stand. Not only that as public complaint goes, the area is also used as uril with none to object or prevent such activities. It is also reported that after dusk, the premises is used by unscrupulous elements for illegal activities.

Most shocking is that the main office which is supposed to function from 2008 as stated by local residents, another building for shifting the office has been made ready two years ago. What for the additiol building has been constructed is beyond the understanding or comprehension of any sensible person. It is no doubt a glaring example of the misuse of state government money by a vicious circle, a common phenomenon during the last Congress regime.

One is also taken by surprise to see an advertisement hung prominently in the office premises under the banner of ‘Swarjayanti Gram Swarojgar Yoja (SGSY)’ which boasts of the development drive of the state government for farmers and SHGs. It only adds to the wretched condition of the centre because none can move through the garbage and auto-rickshaws outside to go inside and read the advertisement. The advertisement advises the farmers to work correctively for self-reliant economy and also for the formation of SHGs. They can get state and bank fince. For more information, farmers are advised to contact block development officer or DRDA office. It has been truly said that a block development officer is another me for development blocking officer.