Kerala should take steps to solve agri crisis: Gov

Thiruvananthapuram, Jan 26: Expressing anguish over the plight of farmers in the country, Kerala Governor R L Bhatia today suggested that the government should accord priority to initiating appropriate policies in agriculture on productivity, prices, credit and marketing.

Speaking after unfurling the national flag at the Republic Day parade in the Central Stadium here, the Governor said ''It is a shame for any civilized society that our farmers, who feed us by the sweat of their brow, and provide basic raw materials for our industries, have to end their lives in distress.'' ''It is not only for the government's but also for the society at large to provide solace, in whatever form needed,'' he added.

Pointing out the gap between the state's immense potential and real performance, Mr Bhatia said ''It is imperative that we launch a string of initiatives to tap this vast ocean of prospects that is well within our reach.'' Besides, Army, Airforce, CRPF, CISF, Railway Protection Force, and Special Armed Police, contingents of Kerala Fire and Rescue Service, NCC, Bharat Scouts and Guides participated in the march past.

Kerala Chief Minister V S Achuthanandan and top police officials took part in the function.

UNI