A plague of rats hit Indian state

Locals in the Indian state of Mizoram are trying to overcome a plague of rats who attack their corn and rice. The Mizoram government have increased wages and food supplies to help the population who rely on farming for their income. The unusually wet monsoon season has lead to an increase of bamboo which in turn has lead to an increased number of rats.

The influx of rats in know locally as Mautam.  As the crop shortfall this year is expected to be up to 75%, each adult villager is given 2kg of rice per week.

“We have also decided to increase the weekly allotment of rice to the villagers so that they have enough to eat,”

Mizoram Home Minister Tony Tawnluia

The locals can earn two rupees per rat killed swapping the rats tails for the reward.

Villagers collect rat tails in Mizoram, India.

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