THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Israel trip to learn modern farming technology has turned into a debacle with the news of one missing farmer. 27 farmers from the state were selected for the journey after a thorough procedure from the ministry. But now, the whole trip is news for all the wrong reasons and the agriculture minister P Prasad has responded at last.

The minister said the farmer who eloped from the team had done it purposely and is no lapse from the team. The selection process was rigid and the 27 selected farmers from the state were sent off with good intentions from the government. But Biju Kurain turned an anomaly from the list as he escaped from the team one night. The team expected him to join today morning but to no avail. He is the father of two young girls.

A complaint has been filed regarding the news. The Israeli police and the Indian embassy have been alerted. The government initiated the visa process for the farmers, which enables them to stay in Israel up to May 8th. The minister admitted to moving legally against the farmer who misused the opportunity to taint the whole reputation of the government.

Meanwhile, Biju has contacted his wife and confirmed that he is safe. He even contacted his brother who informed about the same. Most of the farmers took the tickets with their money rather than depending on the government.