Kerala to focus on agri, industry, IT

Thiruvananthapuram, Mar 2 (UNI) The Kerala Government today reiterated its commitment to the development of agriculture, make the state an investment-friendly destination and boost the information technology industry.

As many as 100 bio-villages will be set up in the state with emphasis on organic farming during 2007-08 which will be declared as 'Harithavarsham,' the year of agriculture and farmers, Governor R L Bhatia told the State Assembly on the opening day of the Budget Session.

'Harithasree,' a programme to produce 1.5 million tonnes of vegetables to make the state self-sufficient, would also be launched. Palakkad, Wayanad and Idukki would be developed into organic farming- based 'Vegetable Districts.' Stressing on farmers' welfare, Mr Bhatia said high-power advisory council under the chairmanship of the Chief Minister would be set up to frame guidelines on the implementation of various programmes to rejuvenate the agriculture sector.

A legislation for regulating agriculture marketing would be enacted to safeguard farmers from multinationals onslaught.

'Kisan Sree,' a scheme to provide security to farmers, would also be launched. In order to ensure timely credit at concessional rates to farmers, the government had taken a policy decision to reduce the rate of interest on agricultural credit.

The government intended to introduce a legislation for debt relief and a comprehensive insurance scheme for the fishermen.

An intensive dairy development programme would be launched during the XI Plan to achieve self-sufficiency in milk production.

Wayanad District would be made a major centre for milk production and milk products by establishing a joint venture project with NRI participation, he said.

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