(a) whether Dr. M.S. Swaminathan Research Foundation has suggested to declare Kuttanad as a Special Agriculture Zone (SAZ);
(b) if so, details of suggestions in this regard; and
(c) the steps taken by the Government to set up such SAZ?
(a) whether Dr. M.S. Swaminathan Research Foundation has suggested to declare Kuttanad as a Special Agriculture Zone (SAZ);
(b) if so, details of suggestions in this regard; and
(c) the steps taken by the Government to set up such SAZ?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF
CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD AND PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION (PROF. K.V. THOMAS)
(a)&(b): Yes, Madam. Considering the uniqueness of Kuttanad agriculture, particularly
the predominantly practiced paddy farming and the fragile wetland system Dr. M.S.Swaminathan
Research Foundation (MSSRF) has recommended to declare the region as a Special Agricultural
Zone to promote eco-system friendly farming, generation of additional economic activity,
promotion of investments, creation of employment opportunities and development of farming
infrastructure.
(c): The Government has approved a package for development of Kuttanad Wetland Eco-system
envisaging an outlay of Rs. 1840.75 crore which inter-alia, includes the component of declaring
Kuttand as a Special Agricultural Zone with financial outlay of Rs. 15.00 crore. Government of
Kerala has been advised to formulate Detailed Project Report (DPR) for implementing this
component.