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Uygur Farmers Welcome New Life  

cctv.com 10-20-2005 15:52


Fifty years of development in the region has changed the lives of Uygur farmers. Our reporter talked with three generations of a Uygur family, to see how their outlook and lives have evolved during Xinjiang's half century as an autonomous region.

This is the home that one-hundred year old grandpa, Yumai'er, has been living in for most of his life. The home might not have changed much, but life here has undergone some dramatic transformations. Fifty years ago, Yumai'er says, he had no idea he would one day live with such ease.


Yumaier said, "Before liberation, we had nothing and lived in extreme poverty. After liberation, the government allocated land to the poor farmers. We now have something to call our own."

For thousands of Uygur farmers living in Pakatari village in southern Xinjiang, the land allocation program has dramatically changed their lives. The village realized an average per capita income of nearly 300 US dollars last year.

And for some, farming is not the only means of earning a living. Yumai'er's son-in-law has been working on this small cattle farm for five years. It is not rented. He is working for himself and has a bright future.


Dawuti said, "The local government has taught us cattle raising techniques. The number of cattle has been increased five-fold. I am confident about the future."

Now Uygurs in Pakatari say they are not worried about food and shelter. And for the younger generations, they believe education is their only way to have a life that goes beyond the reaches of the mountains.

Yumai'er's granddaughter got her college diploma two years ago. She gave up her chances of working and living in a big city.


Now, she's a principal teacher of the village primary school. Zainu'er says she has been so lucky to receive a good education, and she will try her best to let these lovely boys and girls share her luck.

Zainuer said, "At first, most villagers didn't understand why I came back here. But now they understand that the more people here get educated, the better their future will be."

Sitting in the classroom is the latest generation of Pakatari villagers. They may not yet know what life changes are awaiting them, but one thing is sure: they will never see times as tough as those faced by their grandparents.

Editor:Liu Fengming  Source:CCTV.com


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