CM calls for best horticulture practices to raise production

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu today said that industries and horticulture department should coordinate in food-processing and cold-chain linkages in the state.
In a review meeting with seven mission conveners at the Secretariat here today, he said best practices should be incorporated in horticulture.
This, according to him, will enhance the production by 30 per cent.
"That is why we have drip irrigation in 5 lakh acres in the state," he said.
He suggested that tomato farmers be encouraged to have the crop three times a year so that they earn nearly Rs 1 lakh (Rs 30,000 for every crop), an official release said.

In view of the increased consumption of fruits, dairy products, meat and poultry, the Chief Minister said that the Primary Sector Mission head should focus on meeting the demand and educate people about health benefits of consuming them.

Rayalseema region should be made into a horticulture hub, Naidu said, adding that Andhra Pradesh has the potential to become an aquaculture hub.
He informed the Mission heads that American beverage giant PepsiCo, which will procure huge amounts of agriculture produce, will soon start operations in Sri City Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Chittoor district of the state.
He was informed that contribution of tissue-culture banana to GSDP is between Rs 3,000 crore and Rs 6,700 crore.

Walmart, Lulu and another US-based juice-maker are keen on investing in Andhra Pradesh, he said.
He directed the (Social Sector) Mission head to focus on bringing down infant mortality rate and maternal mortality rate to meet the millenium development goals and sustainable development goals.
Meanwhile, the Chief Minister said that the government is keen on spending Rs 300 crore for solid-waste management and bio-fuel production.
"This will help us beautify urban areas and use bio-fuel for power generation," he said.
He directed that construction of buildings should happen in a hassle-free way, without any complaints from builders.
"Even bill payments should happen in a transparent manner," he said.

In the vicinity of ports, Naidu suggested that a logistics hub be established.