Ernakulam:
Self help is the best help. That's the new mantra in Kerala. With food prices hitting the roof, God's own country, Kerala, has decided to revive its agricultural sector and end its decade-long dependence on neighbouring states. So is this the beginning of a new green revolution in Kerala?
Determined to find a solution to check food inflation and rising prices that topple the household budget, women in Kerala are learning the latest farming techniques. Their aim, to cultivate in every bit of unused land and help the state gradually achieve self sufficiency in agricultural production.
Around two-third of the food grains, fruits and vegetables in Kerala, come from other states. With prices already on the rise in these states, Kerala is feeling the pinch. "Kerala is heavily dependent on neighbouring states. We are just trying for an across-the-board attempt at improving not only food production but also livestock production," said Prabhat Patnaik, Vice Chairman, Kerala State Planning Board.
Around 10,000 hectares of unused land will be covered in Ernakulam district itself. The project will be extended to other areas of the state soon. The Kerala Agriculture University, will train rural women and also create awareness among school children about organic farming.
"We are training 300 women from rural areas in batches on modern, mechanised ways of farming," said Asha Devi Varma, Principal Agricultural Officer, Ernkaulam District.
It may appear like a small step, but many believe, this is perhaps the beginning of a second green revolution in Kerala.