Nilambur : 500 acre model farms will be set up in state for vegetable cultivation under Mathrika Krishithottam project. The farming will be initiated through primary co-op societies to commemorate the first anniversary of government. The goal is for the state to to achieve self-reliance in foodgrains and vegetables.
The scheme will be implemented in all districts and will be over and above the farming activity currently engaged in by the co-op societies. A maximum of up to Rs 50,000 per individual will be allowed from the govt fund for the purpose. Also private groups and joint liability entities will be formed for carrying out the model farming. Vegetable bazars will be set up on based on geographical location of the societies.
The co-op societies or individuals may use own land, vacant plots or paddy fields for the purpose of agriculture. The farm produce may be sold via village market or vegetable sale centres. Also, the growers may decide on the scale of farming to be undertaken.
More farmland in Kannur
Kannur has the largest farm area going under the scheme. The districtwise split is : Kannur – 20 co-op societies, 75 acres; Idukki (least) – 15 societies, 10 acres; Thiruvananthapuram – 40 acres; Kollam – 40; Pathanamthitta 35; Alappuzha - 20 Kottayam - 25 Ernakulam 25 Thrissur 60 Palakkad - 20 Kozhikode 40 Wayanad - 20 Kasaragod 50. Although Malappuram is slated for 40 acres under the scheme, farming is planned to sprawl 60 acres, with 20 co-op societies commencing paddy cultivation.
Deputy Registrars have been appointed at district level and Unit Inspectors at Taluk level as nodal officers for the scheme. From 1 Feb onwards, each participating society mus provide updates on what cultivation is being carried out and on how much expanse of land. The reports must reach the Co-op Societies Registrar’s office by March and specify how much land has been brought under the Mathreika Krishithottam project.
