Kakinada: Eluru Lok Sabha member Putta Mahesh Kumar Yadav has sought setting up of palm oil and coconut boards in Godavari districts, as the acreage under these crops is high in the region.
Mahesh Kumar and Denduluru MLA Chintamaneni Prabhakar participated in an awareness programme on modern techniques for growing crops at the Horticulture Research Centre in Vijayarai village of Eluru district on Tuesday.
The Eluru MP said that to set up the palm oil and coconut boards in the area, he would contact union ministers and the central government officials. He underlined that there is a bright future for palm growers. He would ensure that they get the required help as well as good prices for their crop.
Mahesh Kumar called upon youth, in particular those belonging to the farming community, to strive and become entrepreneurs, rather than seeking employment. He pointed out that educated youth from farming families can establish their own industries locally, thereby creating employment for others and achieving success.
The MP pointed to countries like Switzerland and Brazil that import cocoa grown in Africa and export chocolate to rest of the world. He said that there is significant potential to set up industries for manufacturing products like chocolate from coconut and cocoa in the Eluru region. Youth should focus on this aspect.
Mahesh Kumar said scientists and officials from the Horticulture department must identify needs of farmers and focus their research accordingly.
Sagar, a farmer, brought to the MP’s attention lack of insurance coverage for crops like cocoa, coconut, and oil palm. Further, age is also a barrier for securing bank loans. Mahesh Kumar responded saying he would resolve the issues.
Those present included Horticulture University vice chancellor Dhanunjaya Rao, scientists, and officials.
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