GOVERNMENT MULLS COMPASSIONATE FUND FOR FARMERS

JITRA, Feb 7 (Bernama) -- The government is prepared to consider a

compassionate fund for local farmers who incurred losses from attacks by

armyworms or "ulat ratus" on some 200 hectares of padi, said Agriculture and

Agrobased Industry deputy minister Datuk Mohd Johari Baharum.

He said the ministry will request the National Security Council (NSC) to

evaluate the problem faced by these farmers and come up with an appropriate

formula or mechanism to channel aid.

"We will appeal to the government for this fund although it is usually given

to those who suffered from natural disasters such as floods," he told reporters

after launching the ''Mesra Tani'' or Agro-Friendly programme with Bernas at

Kampung Kota Giam, here today.

Mohd Johari said they will also ask the Muda Agricultural Development

Authority (MADA) to prepare a report for a post-cabinet meeting to obtain the

compassionate funds.

Two days ago, 100 farmers in Kampung Pulau Pisang, Kubang Pasu, voiced their

woes to the deputy minister after incurring losses of over RM150,000 due to

armyworms which also attacked padi leaves and stalks.

--MORE

PADI-FUND 2 (LAST) JITRA

Mohd Johari, who is also Kedah Federal Action Council chairman, said

suitable forms of assistance given could be in the form of cash or agriculture

material such as seeds and fertiliser.

"The losses may be estimated according to last season''s produce. If farmers

earn less this season we will make up the difference," he added.

--BERNAMA

ZAJ IZ AO