Naidu takes up SWOT analysis of farm, port sectors

Officials told to ensure that an effective water management system is put in place to face any crisis

The Andhra Pradesh State government has focussed its attention on evolving efficient water management systems to give fillip to the agriculture sector and boost yields in the new State.

Chief Minister designate N. Chandrababu Naidu has asked the officials concerned to identify and rope in experts of national and international repute who could assist his government in this sector, considered one of the priority areas.

Agriculture

The new State offered immense potential in agriculture with its reputation as rice bowl of the country and there is an equal opportunity offered by the agro-based industries.

During his ongoing review meetings, Mr. Naidu is learnt to have started the SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats) analysis of various sectors, agriculture and port-based industry in particular. He wanted the officials to ensure that an effective water management system is put in place in the event of the delta areas as also the uplands in the new State facing crisis owing to shortfall in water supply.

Apprehension

Mr. Naidu’s directives assume significance in the light of apprehensions that sharing of river water will continue to be a major area of concern for the residuary State post bifurcation.

“Water management plays a key role as the State is divided now and we have to depend on the board constituted by the Central Government for all our requirements, however small they may be,” a former civil servant who took part in the deliberations told The Hindu .

Organic manure

In addition to water management, Mr. Naidu, according to him, has asked the officials concerned to explore options for promoting organic manure instead of urea. Effective water management coupled with use of organic manure would significantly enhance the yield besides addressing the concerns on ecological front.

Agro-based industries

On the port-based industry, Mr. Naidu is understood to be keen on promoting agro-based industrial centres along the coast in East and West Godavari, Krishna and Guntur districts.

This will facilitate availability of raw material to the industry while farmers of the four districts would not have to worry about buyers for their produce.