In recent times , besides reports of repeated disturbances by thugs , the most welcome, satisfying, positive and development-oriented news item we saw in the GDN is that Bahrain’s biggest market for locally produced vegetables is getting established and is likely to grow well at Howrat A’ali. This will enable many people to get fresh vegetables at much lower prices than prevailing in the market for imported ones.

We have always wondered why so much open land in Bahrain is lying unutilised. Besides, we were getting worried that they may also turn into concrete jungles of high-rise buildings.

If concerted efforts are made under the guidance of experts in the field of agriculture with the full support of the government and people, it will not be surprising if Bahrain can produce 80 per cent of its vegetable requirement locally, excepting produce which cannot be grown in this soil. People in general will be greatly benefitted by such projects executed in their interest.

We have seen in our country, decades back, the concept of small and kitchen gardens introduced and executed was extremely beneficial. Besides getting our requirements at very low cost, the joy of engaging ourselves in gardening and farm work and getting fresh vegetables and fruit is beyond description.

Agricultural science has improved technology to an unbelievable extent, where cereals, vegetables, fruit and other farm products can be produced even under very trying conditions. With rains failing in many traditional agricultural areas, scientists have developed and demonstrated successful production possibilities by resorting to new techniques like drip irrigation, alternative produces, cost effective measures for all aspects ranging from cultivating lands, sowing, using harmless natural fertilisers and pesticides, least wastage-based harvesting, damage-free packaging and effective storing methods.

Bahrain must launch a massive programme to turn the country from just a dry commercial hub into a place where the agriculture sector is well-developed. This will , besides boosting the economy of Bahrain, transform hitherto barren lands into lush green areas and make it a pollution-free and eco-friendly country. Such a move to make Bahrain an agri-oriented country to the extent possible, will also create sizeable job opportunities to the people.

All these can be achieved if the ministries and authorities concerned launch a nationwide programme to plan, develop and implement agricultural projects. It will be helpful if expertise from other countries like India is sought to make this dream project successful. Let us hope that soon the huge white patches of unutilised lands of Bahrain will turn green and provide sizeable quantities of fruits and vegetables to people and also prevent more and more wasteful malls and buildings coming up marring the beauty of Bahrain.
Chandra Madhavan