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Govt urged to pay more attention to farmers' welfare
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Farmers tend to their fields in the rice planting season in Keude Paya village, Southwest Aceh, on Oct. 21. (Antara Photo/Suprian)
T
he President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo administration has been urged to pay more attention to the of rice farmers in its efforts to maintain price stability, while at the same time boost the agriculture industry.
The government's decision to continue importing rice, reasoning that it was premium rice, could lead to an abundance of supply that could eventually hit farmers, as domestic rice production is deemed sufficient, Institute for Development of Economics and Finance (INDEF) economist Bhima Yudhistira Adhinegara said on Friday.
The government's focus lies in maintaining price stability, which is more beneficial for consumers. However, it is also necessary to pay attention to the farmers and strengthen their purchasing power as prices tend to rise, he said.
"Market distortions can be controlled, but farmers' prices have remained relatively unchanged. The government should be wise, the welfare of farmers must be considered as well," Bhima told The Jakarta Post.
Citing latest data as an example, Bhima said farmers' prices in East Nusa Tenggara had remained stagnant for the past two years. The average age of farmers nationwide is 47 years old, he continued, noting that the younger generation was hesitant to work in the industry in their pursuit of better opportunities.
The agricultural industry has a declining tendency in the long run as a result and self-sufficiency in food should not only benefit consumers, Bhima said. (rin)
