District panchayat had made a policy declaration allocating 40 per cent of its plan fund for improving agriculture production.
Importance will be given to making fallow land fit for farming and to mechanise farming practices. While giving a pride of place to coconut farming, the district panchayat also aims at giving training to men and women on coconut tree climbing. The policy declaration was made at the agri-fest organised by the district panchayat on Saturday. A project will be implemented at the level of blocks in association with the Coconut Development Board for procurement of Copra. Copra drying machines will be popularised. Dairy sector will be given an assistance of Rs. seven crore. A comprehensive paddy farming project will be implemented in association with block panchayats.
A fish seed development centre will be set up Karukulam near Boothathankettu. A special project will be implemented for the development of Pokkali farming. Dry land farming will be encouraged. The best young farmer and agriculture officer will be recognised. Pineapple farming will be undertaken in 1,000 hectares in association with Kudumbasree.
