Phase-4 free land scheme launched in AP

Tirupati, Jan 19 (UNI) Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y S Rajasekhara Reddy today launched the fourth phase of land-distribution scheme in the state.

After the launch at Sri Venkateswara University here, Dr Reddy said under the scheme, kickstarted simultaneously at various places, about 1.66 lakh acres of land would be distributed to about 1.19 lakh landless poor.

To promote cattle-rearing, about 7,000 cows would be distributed to farmers under 'Pasukranti' scheme.

On the dairy sector he said, the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) would modernise the Balaji Dairy of the Chittoor Cooperative Dairy, with an investment of Rs 15 crore. An MoU had been signed with Bulk Milk Centers (BMC) in this regard.

Of Rs 124 crore outstanding loans, dues to the NDDB by the Balaji Dairy, Rs 102 crore was written off and the remaining Rs 22 crore assessed as Dairy assets.

The NDDB would extend Rs 10 crore to the Mahila Sangams towards procurement of cattle.

The 'Pavala Vaddi' scheme (25 paise interest scheme) introduced for the Self Help Groups (SHGs) would be extended to dairy, poultry, cattle and sheep rearing and fisheries sectors.

UNI KNR JJ 1925