"Our goal is to ensure farmers will not have to worry about planting costs once the floodwaters subside. Therefore, we will try to provide them with free seeds and seedlings," he remarked in Semarang, Central Java, on Monday.
Sudaryono made this statement while inspecting the implementation of an affordable groceries market operation at a post office.
He noted that the government plans to prepare the seeds and seedlings to complement the agricultural equipment and machinery already distributed to farmers, enabling them to resume work on their land immediately.
Furthermore, the deputy minister spoke of coordinating with state-run fertilizer producer PT Pupuk Indonesia to deliver fertilizers to flood-affected farmers in the district.
He then stressed the importance of stakeholders paying special attention to the farmers and helping them overcome crop failure losses.
Sudaryono, who hails from Grobogan, expressed his concern by contacting the district head, Setyo Hadi, to assess the extent of the flood's impact, especially on farmers.
"Earlier, this morning, I called the Grobogan district head and asked him to map out the flooded areas and collect data on affected residents. In essence, the government should always be present for its constituents," he emphasized.
Meanwhile, Deputy Governor of Central Java Taj Yasin Maimoen affirmed that the provincial government will assist those affected by the disaster in Grobogan, including farmers.
Maimoen said his administration would coordinate with authorities in Grobogan to assess the losses resulting from the flooding, which was caused by a broken embankment and affected at least three villages across the district.
Related news: Agriculture Ministry backs Stevia seedling development in N Sulawesi
Related news: Government decides to increase fertilizer budget, provide free seeds
Translator: Zuhdar Laeis, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
Copyright © ANTARA 2025
