Date:24/02/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/02/24/stories/2006022420090100.htm

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YSR keen to discuss farm issues with Bush

Special Correspondent

Chief Minister to meet US President at agricultural varsity

US President visiting Hyderabad on March 3

Interaction with farmers, scientists and women members of SHGs likely

HYDERABAD: Chief Minister Y. S. Rajasekhara Reddy is determined to discuss agriculture-related issues with US President George W. Bush during the latter's visit to Hyderabad on March 3.

The setting is perfect for the discussion at Acharya N. G. Ranga Agricultural University, where the President is scheduled to spend nearly 90 minutes, possibly have a one-to-one interaction with Dr. Reddy besides talking to progressive farmers, agri-scientists and women members of the self-help groups. Sources said the Chief Minister revealed his mind at a review meeting with senior officials on Thursday when he also asked them to prepare a blueprint on the AP model of development and a note on developments in industry, IT and bio-tech.

Dr. Reddy is keen to discuss agriculture with President Bush for more than one reason.

He is impressed by the fact that the US accounts for 30 per cent of global food production and yet only 4 per cent of the population is engaged in farming. Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, who has spoken to Dr. Reddy more than once about the Bush visit, is also interested since agriculture accounts for 21 per cent of India's GDP.

From the US viewpoint, the University visit is significant since it is involved in the `knowledge initiative on agriculture teaching and research', a project finalised when Dr. Singh visited the US in July 2005.