Author FU Yi, ZENG Xiao 

Publisher：Yangcheng Evening News 

Date：March 6, 2024

The concept of the Two Sessions, the organizational structure of the People's Congress in China, and the responsibilities of National People's Congress deputies have piqued the interest of foreign students studying in Guangdong universities. The Two Sessions (the National People's Congress and the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference), a significant event in the political landscape of China, prompted foreign students to seek a deeper understanding of the nation's democratic processes.

In a unique opportunity, international students had the chance to interact directly with representatives and gain insights into their daily duties. These interactions facilitated meaningful communication, enabling international students to enhance their comprehension of China and the intricate workings of the country's democratic system.

Meanwhile, towards the end of February, the Green Rice Farm in Wufu Village, Doushan Town, Taishan City, Jiangmen City, Guangdong Province, was actively engaged in cultivating new seedlings for the upcoming season. Taishan, known for its high-quality silk seedlings and rice, boasts the largest rice planting area among county-level cities in Guangdong. The distinct qualities of Taishan silk and Miao rice, including their soft, glutinous, and sweet attributes, make them ideal for creating delectable dishes like claypot rice enjoyed by the native people.

On February 26, Bai Yang, a Mexican international student from JNU, came to the Green Rice Farm and visited Chen Shirong, a deputy to the 14th National People's Congress and director of the farm. At the farm, workers diligently prepared trays of seedlings, transferring them onto a conveyor belt for planting in the fields. With precision, the workers arranged the seedlings, covered them with warm non-woven fabric, and activated the sprinkler system. In the backdrop, tractors and excavators were in operation, tilling the soil and gearing up for spring plowing.

Bai Yang and Chen Shirong (right)

Reflecting on the labor-intensive work, Bai Yang wiped his brow and quoted an ancient Chinese poem, acknowledging the arduous nature of food production. Chen shared, Our 500-acre rice field can yield up to 400 tons of rice annually, providing sustenance for 1000 individuals when processed.

Bai Yang: Your farm management skills are commendable. I'm curious, what led to your election as a National People's Congress representative?

Chen Shirong: Furthermore, my aspiration is to empower local farmers to enhance their income and prosperity. In 2020, we established the Green Rice Farmers Professional Cooperative, introducing innovative fully mechanized rice planting models such as half-tube and full custody services. For instance, through semi-trusteeship, farmers can delegate harvesting tasks to us when lacking equipment, with the output remaining theirs, aiming to boost their earnings and well-being.

Bai Yang: I've heard that your role involves conducting research, gathering public opinion, and addressing issues. Given my demanding schedule, how can I effectively fulfill my duties as a National People's Congress representative?

Chen Shirong: Despite my busy routine, our transition from traditional to professional farming includes a dedicated team for operational support. National People's Congress research aligns closely with my responsibilities. For instance, I recently investigated ways to enhance the quality of grain planting. One challenge identified was the presence of densely located electric poles and communication lines in rice fields due to historical planning, hindering modern agricultural practices involving large machinery and drones. Hence, I propose avoiding such installations in farmland for efficiency and safety.

Bai Yang: What proposals do you intend to present at this year's National People's Congress and Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference?

Chen Shirong: This year, I have submitted a total of five proposals for consideration at the national two sessions. These include the Proposal for promoting high-quality development in grain cultivation, the Proposal for ensuring equal treatment for individuals with disabilities from Hong Kong and Macao in Mainland China, and the Proposal for strengthening poverty alleviation efforts for rural individuals with disabilities within the framework of comprehensive rural revitalization.

As a Mexican international student, my visit to this remote countryside in China has been enlightening. The perseverance and ingenuity of Chinese farmers inspire hope for rural revitalization in the country.

CHEN Shirong:

Representative to the 14th National People's Congress, he embarked on a diverse career path post-graduation, delving into trade. However, in 2014, driven by a deep-rooted passion for the land, he, along with his wife and children, returned to their hometown to pursue full-time farming. By 2020, he established the Green Rice Farmers Professional Cooperative. Presently, the farm spans 33.33 hectares (500 acres) and has garnered accolades such as the Guangdong Provincial Demonstration Family Farm and National Grassroots Agricultural Science and Technology Demonstration Base. Furthermore, it has been recognized as a standout example in the fourth wave of Integrated Development of New Agricultural Business Entities in China, marking a significant milestone in pioneering a distinctive agricultural development model.