Jharkhand govt. holds a pre-budget meet with farmer representatives

Ranchi, Feb 8 (ANI): Ahead of the presentation of the 2010-11 budget, the Jharkhand Government invited representatives of farmers to note their grievances and suggestions for the agriculture sector.

"Our government has decided to give at least 60 percent to the agriculture department and along with that we have taken measures to increase a part of the budget for the power sector also as electricity power is equally important for the development of the state. That is why, as per the state plan, we considered the opinions from the farmers who experienced varied problems in their tasks and also sought practical suggestion from them," said Raghuvir Das, Deputy Chief and Finance Minister of Jharkhand.

He also mentioned that as for the pre-budget proposals concerning agricultural sector all the grievances and suggestions of the farmers were reckoned in right earnest and these would be given due prominence in the ensuing budget.

Farmers expressed confidence of their views being implemented in the state's policy and plans by saying they have faith in the leadership of Chief Minister Shibu Soren.

"We are sure that he will work towards the development of farmers, villages and workers. We are in close contact with him and will also speak to him when necessary," said Rameshwar Mahto, a farmer.

India's inflation hit a one-year high in December 2009, fuelled by almost 20 percent jump in food prices, due to weak monsoon rains and flooding in parts of the country.

Although food price inflation remains a major concern, Asia's third largest economy is expected to grow by around 7.75 percent in the fiscal year to March 2010. (ANI)