Biswanath (Assam), 03 July (HS): Assam Agriculture Minister Pijush Hazarika on Friday participated in the formal registration drive for small tea growers under the farmer registration programme in Behali and Biswanath, urging all eligible growers to enrol and avail benefits of Central and state welfare schemes.

Addressing the gatherings, the minister said small tea growers are an integral part of Assam's agricultural economy and that their welfare remains a government priority. He added that the Centre included Assam's small tea growers in the farmer registration programme following the request of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.

Speaking to reporters, Hazarika also issued a stern warning to fertiliser dealers against forcing farmers to purchase unnecessary fertilisers along with urea, stating that strict legal action would be taken against those found guilty.----------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash