ProMASS News
Agartala, September 09, 2019: Once thriving cashew plantation in North Tripura is in shambles – cashew trees surrounded by jungles and infested with poisonous snakes – aptly depict carelessness and negligence of concerned authority. The ambitious cashew plantation project is located at Sripur gram panchayat and spread over 100 Kani land at Ward 1 at Sripur Panchayat, the plantation started its journey around 20 years ago amidst much hope and aspiration. Initially, four persons were engaged for maintenance of the plantation and around 40 quintals cashew were produced on the first year. Produces were sent to South India for packaging and marketing.
With funds from the erstwhile UPA government flowing, the plantation was expected to become more vibrant – however, within five years since inception, condition of the plantation started to deteriorate. Manpower – maintenance workers were slashed from four to one only. Local people alleged, central fund was utterly misappropriated ruining the plantation.
The point of allegation suggested alleged involvement of a section of LF leaders. “Left Front government got excellent opportunity to develop the plantation benefitting local people. However, they squandered the opportunity to serve their petty financial interests”, locals alleged. With BJPled Government in power, people are expecting positive steps for reviving the plantation.
“With several encroachments, the size of the plantation is shrinking. Moreover, lack of care rendered the cashew trees in pitiable condition. Present government needs to look into the matter seriously. This plantation will help to generate sustainable earnings among the people”, local sources said.
