Sunday, December 18 2005 16:14 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Thodupuzha (Kerala): Calling upon the farming community to give thrust to agro-processing and marketing, President A P J Abdul Kalam today (Dec 18,2005) suggested increased utilization of facilities offered by the co-operative institutions for expansion of agricultural sector.

Inaugurating the 'Agri Fest', organised by Gandhiji Study Centre in this town in the high range Idukki district, Kalam said Kerala's farm products could fetch handsome returns through their value-addition and effective marketing within and outside the country.

Emphasising the importance of organic farming, Kalam wanted the farmers to expand production, processing and marketing with the co-operative sector's help.

The success of the milk co-operative in Anand in Gujarat and the sugar growers in Maharashtra showed that co-operative initiatives were vital in agricultural sector, he said.

He also suggested taking up more farm-linked research programmes and ensure that farmers benefited from the fruits of the research.

Beginning his address in Malayalam amidst applause from the gathering, Kalam poured water to a sapling at the venue to mark the inauguration of the agricultural festival.

Kerala Agriculture Minister K R Gowry, Fisheries Minister Dominic Presentation, parliament members Francis George and P C Thomas and Bishop of Kothamangalam Diocese Mar George Punnakottil were present.

Kerala Congress leader and Gandhiji Study Center Chairman P J Joseph also spoke.