Georgetown, GINA, August 15, 2013
Rice farmers in several Regions – 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 are faced with paddy bug infestation during this current crop, and to assist them to combat the infestation, the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB), under the purview of the Ministry of Agriculture has initiated a $25M initiative to address the issue.
Region Two which was affected during the first crop of this year is experiencing a return of the infestation, which General Manager of GRDB, Jagnarine Singh said could be attributed to the change in weather, and drainage issues and maintenance of rice fields.
Singh highlighted that the company has working to bring the situation under control. This programme will provide pesticides to farmers across the country, as well as technical support.
He also highlighted that distribution has commenced on the Essequibo coast, and tomorrow, rice farmers in Wakenaam and Leguan Islands will benefit.