RICE farmers in Regions 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 are faced with paddy bug infestation during this current crop, and to assist them to combat the infestation, the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB), under the purview of the Ministry of Agriculture, has initiated a $25M initiative to address the issue.
Region 2, which was affected during the first crop of this year, is experiencing a return of the infestation, which General Manager of GRDB, Jagnarine Singh, said could be attributed to the change in weather, drainage issues and maintenance of rice fields.
Singh highlighted that the board has been working to bring the situation under control. This programme will provide pesticides to farmers across the country, as well as technical support.
He also highlighted that distribution has commenced on the Essequibo coast, then rice farmers in Wakenaam and Leguan Islands will benefit. (GINA)