Farmer suicides continue in Odisha

Ganjam/Bargarh: Farmer suicides allegedly over pest menace and crop failure continue in Odisha after a farmer from Ganjam ended his life by consuming poison while another from Bargarh attempted suicide today.

According to reports, a farmer identified as Alaya Jena of Arendra village under Sanakhemundi block of Ganjam district consumed poison on Friday night and was declared dead today.

Jena had applied pesticides in his 2.5 acres land few days ago. However, it fetched no results as he found that his crops were totally damaged by the pests. Not being able to bear the loss he allegedly consumed poison, said family members.

"My brother couldn't bear the heavy loss as all his crops were damaged by pests. So he consumed poison in depression. He had also taken a loan from bank for farming," said Pintu Jena, deceased farmer's brother.

However, the administration is yet to respond on the matter.

In a separate incident, a farmer identified as P Nabin Kumar attempted suicide by consuming poison in Nua Khairpali area under Attabira police limits in Bargarh district on Saturday.

It is alleged that he took the step finding the crops in his 15 acre land totally damaged by pests.

According to reports, he paid a visit to his farm land on Saturday afternoon and allegedly consumed pesticide while returning.

Later, locals rescued him in critical condition and admitted him in Burla medical in Sambalpur district.

He is kept in ICU and will remain under observation for twelve hours, informed doctors.