Kerala Brand for value-added farm produce, CM announces

Kerala will market value-added farm produce under a unified 'Kerala Brand' to secure better prices for farmers, Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan announced on Monday at the State-level Farmers' Day celebrations in Kalamassery, Kochi. The government will also explore exports through the Vizhinjam port.

The Chief Minister said a new agriculture policy will be framed to help farmers tackle climate change and natural calamities. He announced a second round of land reforms by amending land rules, reopening closed plantations, and promoting tourism and multi-cropping without harming ecosystems.

Steps taken in the first two months include ensuring dues for paddy farmers, raising rubber prices from Rs 200 to Rs 250 with a further hike to Rs 300 planned, and increasing crop loss compensation by 25%. The government will use AI and traditional methods to address wildlife attacks, the biggest threat to farming. The Oommen Chandy award was presented to seed conservator Cheruvayal Raman.