Farmers in 10 border districts in two key agricultural states of Rajasthan and Punjab, who grow Kharif crops such as paddy (Basmati and non-Basmati both), moong, and bajra in about 30 lakh hectares (lh) and produce 43 lakh tonnes (lt) of foodgrains, are not worried about the India-Pakistan conflict. For them, safeguarding the national boundary takes precedence over crops. However, with the ceasefire announced, they are hopeful that normal activities will commence this year once the monsoon arrives.
Naik Mal Singh, retired army personnel who owns land just 30 kilometers from the international border in Jaisalmer district, said: “We are disappointed, as we were ready to sacrifice the crop for a season had the war continued. There should have been a permanent lesson to Pakistan.” National interest is a priority for farmers in border areas, and everyone there seems to agree with Singh’s opinion.
