The Hindu Business Line : TN Governor for shifting focus from agri sector

Inaugurating the fourth edition of the international agriculture expo, Agri Intex 2003, Mr Rao observed that though the cultivable area and the people dependent on agriculture was huge, India's agricultural productivity was rather low.

"India has more arable land than China. Even in the best of years our production has not crossed 250 million tonnes, whereas, China registers over 400 m.t. Despite the low productivity, more than 66 per cent of the population are dependent on agriculture for their livelihood. We need to bring the dependence down to 10 or 15 per cent'', he said.

But how can such a drastic cut take place? Will it mean displacement of people... urbanisation? "No, urbanisation is not the answer. While shifting is necessary, it should be with a view to encourage the rural folks to take related activities like the food processing industry'', he said.

The Anna Marumalarchi Thittam is expected to give a boost to the agro industry besides helping the growers. "Value-additions to agricultural products would go a long way in boosting the rural economy''.

The Governor hailed the innovative products showcased in the expo and said it was more of an information exchange platform, rather than a regular systematic annual event. Alleviation of poverty and approach to integrated farming practices was the need of the hour, he added.

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