M S Swaminathan moots creation of SAZs

Farm scientist M S Swaminathan has suggested creation of special agricultural zones (sazs) on the lines of sezs for preservation of the country's traditional farming regions like Kuttanad wetlands, famous as the rice bowl of kerala.

Swaminathan is leading a study commissioned by the centre on problems faced by kuttanad to work out an action plan for saving fast-dwindling area under rice farming and halting ecological degradation of the area.

The agri scientist said water-logged Kuttanad, located in Alappuzha district with its periphery touching kottayam and Ernakulam, would be anideal place for for saz status since conservation and enhancement of rice farming systems was crucial for the food security of not only kerala but also the whole country.

The study focussed on the need to arrest degradation of the area not just for preservation of farming and fishery activities but also for sustainable tourism development.

The commission would be submitting its final report in June, drawing up a detailed action plan for revival of rice and fish based economy of kuttanad and allied activities like coir-making, officials said.

The study also stressed on the need to preserve the ecological balance of the area. It warned that future of water tourism would be endangered if the backwaters and canals are not saved from pollution.