Soil Fertility mapping to be ready by 2008

Kolkata, Aug 3(UNI) National Bureau of Soil Science&Land Use Planning has started soil fertility mapping in order to identify barren land across the country.

Speaking to mediapersons here today, West Bengal Agriculture Minister Naren Dey said the study was being conducted in association with Bengal based agri university Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya.

The study would be completed by 2008, he said.

''Around 32,000 to 76,000 samples of barren land have been identified,'' he said.

Speaking at the programme, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya former Vice-Chancellor Dr M G Som said the use of biotechnology will increase crop production manifold.

State Health&Biotechnology Minister Surya Kanta Mishra said the state government was preparing a draft Biotechpolicy within next two to three months.

''The government is preparing a draft policy which will be uploaded in the website. After seeking suggestion from various stakeholders after which the final policy will be prepared,'' he said.

UNI