Officials creating roadblock to 'KERA'

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A bitter dispute between government departments has cast a shadow over the implementation of the KERA project, which is aimed at modernizing agriculture in the state through smart farming practices and value-added product manufacturing.

Rs 2,390.86 crore is required to implement the centrally approved project. The World Bank is ready to provide Rs 1,677.85 crore as a loan. However, the dispute is about determining under which department the 36 high-level positions should be placed. The Cabinet meeting had suggested creating the posts after consulting with the Chief Secretary. Officials are to be selected from the Agriculture, Industries, IT, Plantation, Finance, and Public Administration departments. This is where the conflict is getting prolonged.

The file in this regard has been shuttling from one department to another for one and a half months. There will be no additional financial burden on the government since the appointments will be on deputation.

Loan to be disbursed in phases:

• Under the KERA project (Kerala Climate Resilient Agri-Value Chain Modernization Project), the World Bank loan will provide a loan of Rs 1,677.85 crore, while the state will allocate a share of Rs 713.06 crore. The project has a five-year duration.
• The project received approval from the Union Ministry of Finance in March and from the World Bank in October. On signing the agreement, the World Bank will disburse Rs 70 crore by March. It will then provide Rs 400 crore in the next phase.
• The World Bank will provide Rs 25.17 crore in advance as assistance for crop damage caused by natural disasters, heavy rains, drought, and climate change.

More investments expected
1. The project will pave the way for more investments in agriculture and related sectors. Financial and technical support will be provided to 250 small and medium agri-enterprises.

2. The project will bolster the agricultural supply chain, improve the infrastructure of markets, and provide credit assistance to find better export markets.

3. Crops like rubber, cardamom, and coffee will receive assistance. Priority will be given to women farmers, women-led enterprises, and 150 startups.

4. Irrigation and fertilizer practices will be upgraded, and smart farming methods will be implemented to mitigate and adapt to climate change.