Prof M S Swaminathan to head Karnataka Vision Group on agriculture

BELAGAVI: Renowned agriculture scientist Prof M S Swaminathan will chair a Vision Group for the agriculture sector for Karnataka, Agriculture Minister Krishna Byregowda announced today.

Winding up the debate on demands for the Agriculture department in the Assembly, he said the vision group has been formed to bring about changes in agriculture and allied industry.

"We had met Swaminathan and requested him to be the Chairman of our states vision group. He has agreed," he added.

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah had announced the creation of a 'Vision Group' for development of agriculture in Karnataka in his Budget Speech on March 13.

Byregowda also said that his ministry would constitute a sub-group to bring about reforms in Agriculture Universities.

Stating that there is increase in sown area of crops this year, he said "till June end sowing area usually used to be 21 lakh hectares. This time till June end sowing area is 25,33,000 hectares, which is a 20 per cent increase."

He said early monsoon showers had helped sowing, but dry spell has caused some worry. "Rains in next 15 days will help crops." Contingency Plan is ready if there is a dry spell, he added.

Stating that government is also working towards supporting organic crops, Byregowda said steps have been taken to provide market linkages.

He voiced concern about farmer suicides, saying "We are not able to understand the sudden increase in farmer suicides recently."