Union Agri Ministry appoints committee on AEZ

Kolkata, Jul 6 (UNI) The Centre has appointed a high power committee to chalk out detailed proposals on development of Agriculture Export Zones (AEZ).

Speaking on the 'Development of Floriculture and other Horticultural Activities in Eastern Region,' organised by Bengal National chamber of Commerce and Industry, Deputy Director National Horticulture Board, under the Ministry of Agriculture, R K Sharma said here today, ''This committee will be deciding on the implementing agencies after AEZ proposals are passed.'' Other broad areas on which this Committee would be focussing are curbing out a mechanism for smooth implementation of the AEZs, modalities of funding and market initiatives.

It has stopped further sanctioning of more AEZs until the existing ones come up, he said.

Mr Sharma said, ''There is huge potential of Horticulture and Floriculture sectors in West Bengal. However, infrastructure should be revamped to facilitate growth of these sectors.'' Pack houses, to package vegetables and fruits before exporting, should be set up in all the districts, he said.

The state has two pack houses while Maharashtra has 97.

State Horticuture department special secretary Amitava Bhattacharya said the state has planned to develop the flower markets across the state, apart from setting up a floriculture park.

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