Deli Serdang Regency Develops Shallot Cultivation in Namorambe District
The Deli Serdang Regency government in North Sumatra has begun developing shallot cultivation in Namorambe District, marked by the planting of two tonnes of seeds on one hectare of land, with a production target of 10–13 tonnes.
Regarding this initiative, the Regent of Deli Serdang, Asri Ludin, stated in Lubuk Pakam on Saturday, that agricultural extension officers and the Department of Agriculture are urged to actively assist farmers from planting through to harvest.
This assistance is requested to go beyond mere counselling; officers are expected to work directly in the field to identify and resolve the challenges faced by farmers.
“The target is to produce 10 to 13 tonnes by the end of December. I request that extension officers and the Department of Agriculture actively go into the field, rather than just providing advice through words or theory, but engage directly so they can see the problems encountered,” he said.
Regarding access to the agricultural land, the Regent requested that drainage and ditch requirements be prioritised to ensure smooth water flow. Proposals for road repairs will subsequently be reviewed by the Regional Development Planning Agency (Bappende) in accordance with the authority of the relevant regional agencies.
The Head of the Deli Serdang Agriculture Department, Elina Sari, explained that this cultivation is being conducted without the use of mulch. This pattern is being implemented by referencing shallot farming practices in Brebes.
“This time we are not using mulch. We want to emulate Brebes. Hopefully, the results will meet expectations,” she explained.
In addition to seeds and fertiliser, the Deli Serdang Regency government, through regional budget (APBD) funds, is also providing agricultural tools and machinery (alsintan) in the form of two-wheel tractors and cultivators. This machinery will be stationed at the Technical Implementation Unit (UPT) office and can be borrowed by farmers free of charge.
A representative of the Jati Kesuma Jaya Farmer Group (Gapoktan), Permadi, expressed appreciation for the government’s support and hopes that farmers will have the opportunity to participate in comparative study visits to regions that have successfully developed agricultural commodities.
The development of shallots in Namorambe is expected to increase land productivity while providing additional agricultural commodity options for farmers.
“Alhamdulillah, the assistance has been received. We hope that knowledge continues to be provided so that the harvest results meet our expectations,” he said.