Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh on Thursday launched the Direct Benefit Transfer for 18,000 registered farmers under Horticulture Department for Mission Organic Value Chain Development for North Eastern Region (MOVCDNER), Phase- III (2020-23). There are altogether 25,000 farmers under this phase including 7,000 farmers registered under Agriculture Department and 18,000 farmers under Horticulture Department.<br />''<br />''Direct Benefit Transfer of 11,250 rupees per farmer for the components of assistance for on-farm input for both first year and second year and for off-farm inputs production for first year was transferred to the individual registered farmer's account today. An amount of 3,750 rupees will be transferred to the farmers in the next instalment.<br />''<br />''The programme was held at the Darbar Hall of CM's Secretariat in Imphal. Besides, Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, Horticulture and Soil Conservation Minister Letpao Haokip, Additional Chief Secretary P. Vaiphei also attended the programme.<br />''<br />''Speaking at the function, Shri Biren appreciated farmers for turning towards organic farming in Manipur. He said that the chemical fertilizers affect our health and all need to convert to organic farming. Organic farming is in fact easy as preparation of organic manure using kitchen waste and leaf debris is quite easy and the State Government is fully committed to convert Manipur into a total organic farming state within the next five years.<br />''<br />''The Chief Minister spoke strongly against illegal poppy plantation in the hill districts and warned that the government will not spare anyone found involved in the drug business or poppy plantation. <br />