"Unchecked migration has severely affected agriculture and is slowly eroding our culture, traditions and ancestral heritage": Reports
DEHRADUN: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath called for steps to curb migration from hill areas of Uttarakhand, stating that it is affecting agriculture and local traditions.
He made the remarks at his ancestral village Panchur while attending a religious function and the consecration ceremony of a newly constructed Shri Vishnu Panchdev Temple.
Addressing villagers, he said, "Unchecked migration has severely affected agriculture and is slowly eroding our culture, traditions and ancestral heritage. Fields that once flourished with crops are now overgrown with bushes and shrubs. The continuing exodus from rural hill regions has distanced people from their roots, land and cultural identity, posing a serious threat to the future of the hills."
He urged residents, particularly those from hill regions, to preserve traditions and community practices. "Conducting regular religious activities and organising community pujas to seek divine blessings are essential to preserving society and keeping cultural traditions alive," he said.
Referring to declining agricultural activity, he said, "The situation in many villages has deteriorated to the point where not even a single grain is being cultivated due to migration. While people often blame wild animals for abandoning farming, such challenges existed in the hill regions earlier as well. However, people in those days were more aware, vigilant and deeply connected to their land, enabling them to protect both their farms and traditions."
He said efforts should be made to revive barren fields and added that support would be extended to farmers and villagers.
"Our culture, villages and very existence can remain secure only when our fields remain lush, green and productive," he said.
