How Are Rajouri Farmers Benefiting from the Ceasefire?

Rajouri, May 24 (NationPress) After a period of intense strain between India and Pakistan post-Operation Sindoor, the border regions of Rajouri in Jammu and Kashmir faced a considerable conflict threat, significantly affecting the livelihoods of local inhabitants, particularly the farmers. Nevertheless, with the recent ceasefire agreement now in effect, a sense of normalcy is slowly returning, offering vital relief to the agricultural community in the area.

The ceasefire has ignited a wave of optimism among Rajouri's farmers. As the danger of cross-border firing diminishes, agricultural operations have resumed robustly. The local Agriculture Department has also intensified its efforts to assist farmers by enhancing seed distribution.

Prior ceasefire breaches originating from across the border had hindered farming activities in the region. Numerous farmers were anxious about the potential loss of crops and investments due to the prevailing unsafe conditions. However, with tranquility returning, the sentiment among farmers has turned hopeful.

The maize planting season is currently underway, with farmers collecting seeds from government facilities to kickstart their cultivation. The Agricultural Department in Rajouri is actively aiding them with superior quality inputs.

IANS spoke to local villagers and farmers from border areas, where they expressed gratitude for the reinstated peace and urged the government to guarantee long-lasting stability in the region. They highlighted how the truce has afforded safety to their lives and enabled them to engage in farming without trepidation.

One farmer from Rajouri remarked, “We hope this peace lasts for a long time. Only then can we strategize for our future and lead stable, secure lives. The ceasefire should persist. We lived in fear due to the tensions between India and Pakistan.”

Another farmer noted, “We endured a lot due to shelling from Pakistan. I’m delighted that we are now receiving seeds at government rates. If the ceasefire hadn’t occurred, farmers would have encountered numerous hardships, as farming is our primary livelihood in this area. I am very pleased.”

Abhinash, another farmer, stated, “I am thrilled about the ceasefire between India and Pakistan. We have resumed farming. I came here to purchase seeds. If the ceasefire hadn’t taken place, it would have been incredibly challenging for us.”

The Chief Agriculture Officer of Rajouri, Madan Pal Singh, mentioned, “This time, considering the farmers’ needs, the department has shown exceptional enthusiasm in distributing seeds. We have acquired a larger supply of maize seeds than previous years to prevent shortages. High-quality hybrid seeds are being provided to ensure improved yield and productivity.”