Fapcci hails agri focus in AP Budget

It described the allocation of Rs 933 crore for agriculture and allied sectors as a positive step. It also commended the government for increasing plan allocation for irrigation by 95 per cent to Rs 4,245 crore.

Fapcci president O P Goenka said that the setting up of an agriculture technology mission for improving efficiency through precision farming techniques would help improve the farmers' capabilities.

He said the Rain Shadow Area Development Department would provide boost to rural employment and utilisation of cultivable waste land in the state.

While the decision to promote plantation of energy crops such as jatropha for production of bio diesel was praiseworthy, due importance had been given to horticulture, sericulture, animal husbandry, he said.

Goenka said that the Budget proposal for the development of roads, ports and airports would greatly help in industrial development. The focus on agro industries, biotech industries, export-oriented units and large industry would help create employment opportunities.

The government's decision to set up industry rehabilitation boards to help sick industries was noteworthy, he said. The steps initiated for setting up of industrial parks and cluster development in textiles would encourage growth in the sector.

The Fapcci also welcomed the government's decision to create additional power generation capacity. He, however, felt that the waiver of outstanding arrears of Rs 1,244.40 crore as promised in the Budget should be a one-time event.

The Budget allocation for rural development and poverty alleviation would definitely bring smiles on the faces of rural folk. The Budget proposals for education, health and family welfare would strengthen the social fabric of the state.

The chamber said that the industry and the industry associations should be taken into confidence in the Budget implementation process.