Bishnu Rana

TEZU, Dec 23: Always considered as a frontline orange producing district in the state, Lohit, however, is staring at the prospect of losing its reputation as there has been widespread decline in production in several villages which earlier had enviable outputs.
Farmers have to abandon hundreds of hectares of orange orchards with Loiliang, Tezugam, Changliang and parts of Demwe the worst affected villages. According to a survey conducted by the Arunachal Pradesh Horticulture Research and Development Mission (APHRDM) from October 26 to October 31, Wakro which is known as the orange bowl of the state is also badly affected. While the decline of citrus fruit output is caused by several factors, the survey team zeroed in on three causes- nutrient deficiency (especially zinc deficiency), greening disease and viral infection (Tristeza and Yellow Corky Vein virus).
When contacted, Horticulture Development Officer S Rehman said that some of the abandoned gardens could still be rejuvenated if proper care is taken. Timely cleaning of bushes and pruning, nutritional supplement with moisture addition etc. can boost up production, he opined.  It is relevant to add that a widespread decline in production of citrus fruits in several districts of the state has brought concern among the orange farmers as well as to the Horticulture department. Meanwhile, in a sharp contrast, Bhekuliang and Vedagam villages are having good times. Blessed with favourable climatic conditions, these foothill villages are expecting good output this season. “Over 40-50 acres have been brought under orange plantation and this season also we are expecting a good turnover. The Horticulture Department is providing all sorts of support to the farmers for a better harvest,” the HDO informed.

The Khasi-Mandarin breed is predominantly grown here which is juicy and good in taste, he added.

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Kenter Joya Riba

(Managing Editor)
      She is a graduate in Science with post graduation in Sociology from University of Pune. She has been in the media industry for nearly a decade. Before turning to print business, she has been associated with radio and television.
Email: kenterjoyaz@easternsentinel.in / editoreasternsentinel@gmail.com
Phone: 0360-2212313

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