Ministry Discusses Drought Consequences and Support Measures with Farmers

Representatives of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Water Management met today with agricultural producers and farmers, who presented the problems they face, especially regarding the effects of a prolonged dry period and reduced yields of coarse fodder. Attending the meeting on behalf of the Ministry were State Secretary Krsto Rađenović, Director of the Directorate for Agriculture Miroslav Cimbaljević, Head of the Directorate for Livestock Miodrag Došljak, and Head of Inspection Ranko Bogavac. One of the key conclusions was that the Ministry will today send a letter to local self-governments in four central municipalities, requesting an assessment of the damage caused by the drought. After the local services carry out the assessment and prepare reports and accompanying documentation, the Ministry will organize another meeting with farmers to jointly review the assessment results and define further steps. Based on the collected data, the Ministry will submit a report on the situation on the ground to the Government, while the Minister will additionally urge the Prime Minister to consider support options for farmers after the damage assessment is completed. It was emphasized at the meeting that excise taxes for fuel for farmers will be paid during the next week, implementing one of the support measures for the sector.