Minister for Agriculture V.S. Anil Kumar informed the Assembly on Wednesday that 1,099 clusters would be formed in the Agriculture Department to make available pesticide-free organic vegetables and fruits. In addition to the 118 eco-shops functioning in the State, another 317 would be set up by the department.
Pointing out that the use of pesticides was a major concern for the government, the Minister said 1,251 tonnes of pesticides were used in the State in 2015. Incidence of cancer was high in Kuttanad coming under three districts and the department had decided to go for good agriculture practices at a cost of ₹200 lakh.
The Agriculture Department had strengthened its Enforcement Wing and the Food Safety Commissionerate functioning under the Health Department had been asked to take steps to check fruits and vegetables that reach markets in the State from adjoining States.
Rail, road connectivity
Minister for Ports Kadannappally Ramachandran told the House that the Indian Port Rail Corporation had been asked to provide rail and road connectivity to small ports as part of improving the transportation of cargo by sea.
