Dear Editor,
I am writing to bring attention to the concerning issue of
poultry farmers in Sikkim being exploited by exorbitant prices of day-old
chicks and poultry feed/medicines imposed by dealers and shopkeepers. This
exploitation is not only detrimental to the livelihood of the farmers but also
impacts consumers by driving up the prices of chicken in the market.
It is distressing to note that the cost of a day-old chick
in Siliguri is Rs. 43, whereas the same chick in Sikkim is priced at a
staggering Rs. 65, with a significant margin of Rs. 22 being pocketed by the
dealers and shopkeepers. A similar discrepancy is observed in the cost of feed,
where Sikkim farmers are paying around Rs. 500 more per bag compared to their
counterparts in Siliguri.
This unjust pricing structure not only burdens the poultry
farmers with high production costs but also results in inflated prices for
consumers. While dealers and shopkeepers thrive financially, the actual
farmers, who are the backbone of this industry, continue to struggle for
economic stability.
Sikkim, being a prominent tourism destination with a
substantial demand for chicken, has immense potential for poultry production.
However, the state consistently faces shortages of about 2-3 times a year due
to the inadequate self-sufficiency of its poultry industry. To bridge this gap,
the Department of Animal Husbandry must intervene urgently. It is imperative
for the department to regulate the rates of day-old chicks and feeds in the
market and take strict actions against shopkeepers who are exploiting farmers
for their own gain.
Regular surprise inspections of shops by the Department of
Animal Husbandry can effectively curb the unjust pricing practices, thereby
reducing the cost of production for farmers. This intervention will not only
protect farmers from exploitation but also enable them to achieve economic
stability. Furthermore, consumers will benefit from more affordable chicken
prices in the market.
It is crucial for the authorities to prioritize the welfare
of poultry farmers and ensure a fair and transparent market environment. By
taking proactive measures to control pricing disparities and monitor the
poultry industry closely, Sikkim can enhance its production capacity and meet
the demand for chicken effectively.
Yours etc.,
AMBER RAI
Email: amberrai.sikkim@gmail.com
