Members of the Task Force for ‘Agriculture, Water Conservation, Food Processing and Related Development’ in Chhattisgarh on Friday emphasized the development of allied farm-based activities and exploiting the ample opportunities in the state.

At the maiden meeting at the State Planning Commission office, Pradeep Sharma, advisor to the Chief Minister, suggested better implementation of the Chief Minister’s flagship scheme ‘Narva, Garuva, Ghurva and Baadi’ scheme.

He spoke on the need for developing a Fisheries Policy and Aquaculture Village, stated an official communication.

Member Dr G.V. Ramanjaneyulu from the Centre for Sustainable Agriculture, Hyderabad, said there was a possibility of developing new agro-products as opportunities existed for organic farming in the state.

Dr Kavitha Kuruganti from the Alliance for Sustainable and Holistic Agriculture (ASHA), New Delhi, stressed the need for development of human resources at the community level.

Prof. Trilochan Shastri from IIM Bengaluru laid emphasis on strengthening and developing the marketing system through cooperatives. It would help to get the maximum price of agro-produce.

Prof. Himanshu, Centre for Economic Studies and Planning, JNU, spoke on investment in priority sectors of agriculture based on conserving the environment. He raised the need for a Commission on Agriculture Farm Income.

Dr K. Subramaniyam of the State Planning Commission said the Task Force has nine working groups including for agriculture, horticulture, animal husbandry, fisheries, food processing and water resources.