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Secretary of Rural Development Kelei Zeliang speaking at the inauguration of VCU & VDB Association conference hall-cum-office at district headquarters, New Peren, on January 23.[/caption]
Dimapur, Jan. 24 (EMN): Secretary of rural development and secretary to the chief minister, Kelei Zeliang, has called for growth of rural economy through various agri-allied activities in farm sector that would benefit all sections of population especially those dependent on it for their livelihood.
Speaking at the inaugural function of VCU & VDB Association conference hall-cum-office at district headquarters, New Peren, on January 23, Kelei expressed that to unlease growth in any sector, innovative ideas, positive outlook and hardwork are a vital force that need to be entailed.
In a press release issued by the CMO, the secretary also pointed out that sustainable and profiting farming requires setting up of farmers’ cooperative society to work in coordination with government and ICAR Research Complex in Jharnapani that would help infuse agro-business with new technology and services.
He also called for complete transformation in today’s system of depending entirely on government funds. “Let’s stop begging government for funds which would only lead to the path of corruption. Instead involve ourselves in promotion of various agri-allied businesses be it piggery, fishery, livestock, horticulture in dragon fruit, oil palm, king chilly etc. which will make farmers not only self-sufficient but also a producing society,” Kelei stated.
The chief guest also encouraged the gathering to utilise and maintain the new building properly for the benefit of all.
On the sidelines of the inauguration, the secretary also met the DRDA officials and BDOs to enquire about the implementation of central welfare schemes under Ministry of Rural Development meant for the rural poor.
The programme was attended by district officials and a number of village council and VDB leaders from 89 government recognised villages under Peren district. Senior project officers and village elders also delivered short speeches.