|
A delegation of the Coffee growers’ from the Karnataka Growers Federation called on Shri Kamal Nath, Union Commerce and Industry Minister here last evening. The delegation impressed upon the Minister the crisis of coffee industry due to fall in prices, drought, pest and diseases affecting the coffee crops. They also pointed out that a majority of coffee growers cannot avail themselves of the relief package announced recently by the Government, as they are unable to meet the conditions put forth by the banks. Shri Kamal Nath assured the delegation to look into the problems faced by coffee growers and to work out a long-term package for the revival of coffee industry.
Led by Ms. Motamma, former minister of Karnataka government, the delegation consisted of Shri Lakshman Gowda, Dr. N.K Pradeep, President and General Secretary of the Karnataka Growers Federation and Shri Natesh, Liaison officer, Coffee Board, Delhi.
The delegation urged that coffee industry be treated on the lines of tourism and Information Technology providing subsidy for investment, for pesticides, insecticides and machinery, exemption of import duty on coffee vending and brewing machines, apart from a substantial increase in the planting subsidy.
SB/SS
|
