The Hindu Business Line : Magazine for farmers <I>Sharad Krishi </I>launched

THE Centre for International Trade in Agriculture and Agro-based Industries (CITA), a non-profitable organisation that helps farmers conduct business against the backdrop of WTO, has announced the launch of Sharad Krishi, a magazine published exclusively for them.

Announcing the launch of the magazine in the city, the VHgroup Chairperson, Ms Anuradha Desai, said the magazine would endeavour to address all issues of concern to agriculturists and entrepreneurs.

The magazine will provide market information on various agricultural commodities as reported by the World Bank, important developments on WTO aspects, country-wise information on agri-marketing, exports and imports.

Sharad Krishi will also carry a section on frequently-asked questions on WTO aspects, exports and import of agricultural commodities, Ms Desai said, adding that plans were on to initially launch the magazine in Hindi and Marathi.

"The magazine is priced at Rs 20 and we plan to launch it in various regional languages in a phased manner," she said.

The magazine will also carry inspirational stories of farmers and agri-entrepreneurs and informative articles on WTO with reference to agreements, compliances, food laws of various countries, recommendations, and suggestions of WHO/FAO on WTO issues.

"We also plan to provide State-wise reports of relevant crops, States' policies/programmes," said Ms Desai.

CITA's mission is to assist agro-based industries to develop modern and scientific systems to enable them to face the challenges of the WTO regime and benefit from the opportunities in a globalised market.

CITA has been undertaking capacity building programmes through training modules, developing and updating a database on world trade in agricultural commodities and agro-products relevant to agriculture.

The body also liaisons and interacts with various Government departments on WTO issues and other policy matters concerning Indian agriculture.

It co-ordinates with similar fora in other developing countries in the region.

The magazine will be circulated through farmers' co-operative societies, the zilla parishad and corporations.

A panel of experts will answer queries from readers.

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