Early monsoon rains prompt farmers in Kyaukpadaung to begin cultivation of oil crops and pulses

FARMERS in Kyaukpadaung Township have begun cultivat­ing groundnuts, sesame, pigeon peas and green gram following the squalls that occurred on 28 April and the early monsoon rains that continued into early May.

In Kyaukpadaung Town­ship, heavy rain accompanied by strong winds fell on 28 April, bringing 1.34 inches of rain­fall. However, the rain was not widespread across the region. Further rainfall measuring 1.54 inches was recorded on 10 May and 0.55 inch on 11 May, result­ing in more widespread rainfall throughout the area.

According to the Township Agriculture Department, the main crops planned for cultiva­tion in the township during the season include 64,000 acres of groundnuts, 122,651 acres of ses­ame, 10,314 acres of sunflower, 12,002 acres of green gram and 75,970 acres of pigeon peas.

Relevant departments, under the supervision of the Township Management and Ad­ministrative Committee, are pro­viding the necessary assistance to ensure that cultivation targets are met and exceeded and that target yields are achieved. Sup­port measures include the time­ly supply of quality seeds, the systematic use of fertilisers, the application of proper agricultur­al techniques and the provision of agricultural loans in a timely manner. — Nay Aung (IPRD)/ MKKS