River linking is certain, even if there is a slight delay: Vice President Radhakrishnan

Elugu: Vice President Radhakrishnan launched non-GMO popcorn hybrid seeds in Musunur in Nuzvidu constituency. He started his speech in Telugu on the occasion. ‘I can understand Telugu, but I cannot speak it. Two months ago, I read the success story of Gourmet company MD Pattabhi in a Tamil newspaper. I congratulate him for bringing recognition to the world of a single product. On January 14, the entire country will celebrate the harvest festival together. It is celebrated as Sankranti in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, Pongal in Tamil Nadu, Lohiri in Punjab and Bihu in Assam,’ he said.

The Vice President congratulated the Central and State governments for implementing various schemes for farmers. He said that the Center has allocated Rs. 1200 crore to women’s groups for the scheme of renting drones to farmers. He hoped that we would stop importing popcorn from America and grow to the point where we can export it ourselves. He said that it is not uncommon for 17,500 farmers in eight states to cultivate popcorn on 40,000 acres. He said that this year, by the grace of God, the necessary rains will fall. He said that there is no need to worry about that.The Vice President made it clear that the linking of rivers from Mahanadi to Cauvery river will remain a dream. Although there may be some delay, it will become a reality. He said that there is no need to depend on other countries for our food needs. Vice President Radhakrishnan stated that the central and state governments are providing the necessary support and assistance to farmers to meet their food needs.