Lack of crop insurance hindering agricultural sector – former Minister

Following intense flash flooding in which several farmers lost their crops, former Junior Agriculture Minister Vibert Parvatan said that the lack of insurance for crops has severely crippled the agricultural sector, especially in bad weather. “Here in Guyana, our agriculture, a problem you face, a problem we all face is the fact that there is no crop insurance. It is a difficult subject. When the weather is bad and you lose your crop, you suffer for that; when it is good, everyone celebrates, but in hard times you stand alone,” he said.
He made those comments while addressing small business owners at the Small Business Development Finance Trust (SBDF) Annual General Meeting on Monday.

Parvatan, who served during the Desmond Hoyte presidency, said that agriculture was important for economic sustenance and more emphasis should be placed on crop insurance. He added that farming was no easy task and urged farmers to be aware of their markets and produce accordingly.
“It would be nonsensical for persons to start producing and selling items without understanding the market. The reason why your business exists is to satisfy the customer and that basic concept must be understood,” Parvatan noted.
“As we look at the economy in Guyana today, we know that we are not singular; generally, in the world today, there is a decline, there are harsh economic realities, there are problems, but there are also challenges and opportunities,” he added. Parvatan said that farming required courage and the struggles of a farmer were often underappreciated.
Over the weekend, following heavy rainfall, several parts of Guyana experienced intense flash flooding. As a result of the high water levels, farmers across the country recorded losses of crops and livestock.
In Canal Number Two, West Bank Demerara (WBD), farmers battled with extremely high water and poor drainage. They complained that the water destroyed their crops and as such, they were now requesting the assistance of the Government in order for them to plant again. The farmers told <<<Guyana Times>>> that they were requesting fertiliser from the Government while they contemplated their next move.
Over in Canal Number One, WBD, farmers are recording large losses. One farmer said that the constant flooding has destroyed his entire pineapple field and called on the authorities to ensure that steps were being taken to remedy the situation.
Throughout the country, the flooding is being blamed on poor drainage and maintenance.
The situation was the same in Regions Five (Mahaica-Berbice) and Six (East Berbice-Corentyne).