New policy to focus on marketing of agri sector

AGRI BIZ POLICY PART IV

In a bid to promote agriculture sector in both domestic and global markets, Gujarat government's soon-to-be-announced Agri Business Policy-2008 is likely to focus on marketing and promotion of agriculture sectors. The new policy is likely to provide subsidies and assistance to farmers, farmer clubs and co-operative societies to participate in international agri exhibitions.

Though agriculture production in Gujarat has been constantly on the rise for the past few years, the state government is of the view that there is need for marketing and promotion of agriculture sector. The new agri business policy being worked out by the Gujarat government is likely to dole out support in the form of incentives for marketing and promotion of the agriculture sector.

As part of the new policy the Gujarat government may offer 100 per cent subsidy for state pavilion in the international exhibition. Apart from this, the state government may also give table space to farmers, farmers club and co-operative societies in Gujarat pavilion. The policy also proposes to provide cost of air tickets and reimbursements to participants taking part in exhibitions, said senior government officials.

The state government aims at providing proactive facilitation through nodal agency, for which the government proposes 100 per cent financial assistance. Further to encourage players in the agriculture sector to undertake marketing and promotion activities, the proposed agri business policy is likely to offer help for organising road shows. Also, 10 per cent expenses would be given to a nodal agency for creating a brand, logo or recognition of the state.

In case of marketing and promotion of unique products Gujarat such as Kesar variety of mango or wheat grown in Bhal region of the state, the Gujarat government proposes to extend 100 per cent expense to nodal agency.