Hyderabad, Nov.21 (NSS): Stressing the importance of undertaking reforms in agriculture sector, Minister for Agriculture Tummala Nageswara Rao has directed the Additional Director of the Agriculture department to consolidate all suggestions made by the Commission Members regarding the appointment of model farmers and submit a comprehensive report.
The Minister assured the Commission Members that the issue would be brought to the Chief Minister’s attention.
Kodanda Reddy, Chairman of the Agricultural Commission, along with other Members, called on Minister Tummala Nageswara Rao at the Secretariat here on Thursday. The meeting discussed several key issues, including appointment of model farmers (Adarsha Rythu), integration of agricultural work with the Employment Guarantee Scheme and removal of GST on agricultural machinery and tools, amendments to the Seed Act and strengthening Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs).
Speaking on the occasion, the Minister clarified that matters like amendments to the Seed Act and the removal of GST on agricultural tools fall under the jurisdiction of the Union government.
He stated that requests on these issues have already been submitted to the central government, and the integration of the Employment Guarantee Scheme with the agricultural sector is currently under their consideration. The Minister further assured that efforts will continue to pressurise the Union government through various means.
Tummala also emphasised the government’s commitment to revitalising the agricultural sector by initiating the appointment of ATMA (Agri Technology Management Agency) committees. These committees will soon implement extensive programmes, aimed at providing new momentum to the agricultural sector, he said.
The Minister requested the Commission Members to provide guidance for the programmes to be conducted through these committees.
