Brief
Odisha villagers destroy cannabis crop and ask for government aid
Silimeta residents cut down cannabis after an awareness campaign, warning of livelihood loss as the sowing season closes.
By Felo News Desk · Published
In Silimeta village, Malkangiri district, Odisha, residents voluntarily uprooted cannabis plants following a police awareness campaign, according to Deccan Chronicle.
The villagers said the timing leaves them unable to plant traditional crops such as paddy or ragi this season, creating immediate food‑security and income concerns.
A local farmer quoted the outlet, "We destroyed the cannabis plants after learning about the harm they can cause. But without cultivation, we have no means of earning a livelihood. It is too late this year to grow paddy or ragi, so we are worried about how to support our families."
The community has appealed to the state government for urgent financial assistance and alternative livelihood options to avoid hardship during the current agricultural cycle.
Key facts
- Villagers in Silimeta destroyed cannabis plants after a police awareness drive (deccanchronicle.com)
- They claim the sowing window for paddy and ragi has passed, threatening their livelihood (deccanchronicle.com)
- The community has asked the government for immediate financial aid and alternative income sources (deccanchronicle.com)
Sources
- [1] deccanchronicle.com — originally reported as “Malkangiri Villagers Destroy Cannabis Crop, Seek Government Support For Livelihood”
