Harish Rao wants comprehensive Action Plan for Kharif

Irrigation and Marketing Minister T. Harish Rao on Tuesday asked officials to prepare a comprehensive Action Plan to provide Minimum Support Price for agriculture produce in the State for ongoing Kharif season. He also approved establishment of Rythu Bazar in Husnabad, Asifabad and Bhainsa.

Harish Rao held a detailed review meeting with the officials at BRK Bhavan on Tuesday to discuss issues like construction of godowns, Rythu Bazars, cold storages and other schemes. Addressing the meeting, he said import of fruits and vegetables from other States to Telangana should be discouraged as it hurts the interest of Telangana's farmers. He asked the officials of Horticulture, Marketing and Rythu Bazars in districts to constitute coordination committees for effective monitoring. He also directed the officials to study the methods of productions and storage of onion from Mominpet of Ranga Reddy district.

The Minister informed that the State Government has constructed 355 godowns of 18.55 Lakh Metric Tonnes capacity during the last three years. He said of 55 other godowns, the construction of 21 godowns should be completed by August end. He said tenders should be immediately called for th construction of remaining 34 godowns.

Harish Rao said this year the production of cotton is likely to be high. Therefore, he said officials should prepare a plan for procurement of cotton before August 15.

The meeting was also attended by Marketing Director Lakshmi Bai, Joint Director Lakshmanudu and other senior officials. (INN)