Farmers block NH demanding compensation, loan waiver in Bargarh  

Bargarh: Pressing for a five-point charter of demands, including compensation for damaged crops and loan waiver, farmers from Sial-khandahata and Mahulipali Panchayats under Bheden block in Bargarh district staged a road blockade today.

The farmers blocked the national highway (NH) connecting Godabhaga and Sonepur near Mahulipali demanding compensation for crop loss due to pest attack and loan waiver for this year's Kharif season. The activists alleged that 55 per cent crops in both the panchayats have been affected by brown plant hoppers. Hence, the government should provide compensation for the loss, said an agitating farmer.

On receiving information, Bheden Tehsildar reached the spot and discussed with the agitators. He said a special team has been formed to conduct an inquiry, following which necessary steps will be taken to provide compensation to the affected farmers.

Meanwhile, vehicular communication between Bargarh and Sonepur districts have been affected due to the road blockade.