Govt neglecting agri-research; more funds sought in 12th plan

"I think, we are neglecting agricultural science. The amount of importance that we should be giving, we are not giving, though we have very good scientists," Basu said at an international agri-conference here.

"We are decades behind in agriculture science as compared to other countries like US. It is a poor reflection on our policies," he added. Basu noted that there is an urgent need for increasing the investment in agricultural science if the government aims to raise foodgrains output to 280-300 million tonnes by 2020.

India had produced a record 241.56 million tonnes in 2010-11 crop year ended June. "We had discussions with the Planning Commission on this issue. We have asked for more fund allocation for this area in the next plan period," he said.

The government has made the Plan allocation of less than Rs 3,000 crore a year for agricultural research and education in the 11th Five Year Plan.Stating that the country achieved record production last year simply through strengthening the extension services and giving attention on gaps, he said: "We can produce 25 million tonnes extra in coming years by just focusing on extension but beyond that can be possible through agri- science".

UN body Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) official David Phir said that India has to review its policies to boost agriculture sector to achieve food security concerns.
"India has capacity to rise and tackle the challenges facing agriculture sector. But right policies are to be framed to yield results," he noted.