AP targets 5 per cent GSDP growth in agri sector

Hyderabad, June 6 (UNI) Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y S Rajasekhara Reddy today said the government is targeting to achieve five per cent Gross State Domestic Production (GSDP) growth in the agriculture sector during 2007-08.

Releasing an 'Integrated Action Plan 2007' in the secretariat here, Dr Reddy said the government had allocated Rs 22,647 crore for the development of agriculture and welfare of the farmers in 2007-08.

''Such an approach will enhance the production of agriculture and reach four to five per cent target, against three per cent GSDP growth last year,'' he said.

Stating that the government was committed to turn the agriculture sector into a profitable business, he said allied sectors like poultry, dairy and sheep rearing were also accorded priority to raise the standard of living of farmers by allocating Rs 769 crore this year.

Observing that silent revolution was taking place in the agriculture sector since the Congress came to power, the Chief Minister said bank loans to the tune of Rs 22,650 crore would be provided to the farmers with five to seven per cent interest rate in 2007-08, as against Rs 9,019 crore distributed in 2004-05 by the previous TDP government.

UNI