NONGSTOIN: Attack by Paddy Blue Beetle has been reported from fields under Madan Riewblei Paddy field, madan Myrhoi and in the area of Langpih, West Khasi Hills District.  These Paddy blue beetle has attacked standing paddy crops which has triggered concerns among farmers who cultivate paddy in large areas. On receiving complaints from the farmers, members of the Hills Farmers Union under the leadership of Lumlang Kharsyiemlieh, General Secretary conducted spot visits and found out the reality that the pest has attacked standing crops.  He said that the HFU has sent a report to the office of the District Agricultural Officer, West Khasi Hills who immediately sent a team to conduct a field visit.

The Union also informed that Pest control measures have been initiated by the office in the affected places and he urged the farmers to immediately collect the selective pesticides from the office. He also urged the authorities to take simultaneous steps to prevent the infestation of Paddy Blue Beetle in other fields of the region.