AP govt signed MoUs with Agri institutions to provide technical assistance to farmers:
The Andhra Pradesh State government signed memoranda of understanding (MoU) with 11 premier agricultural institutions in the country on 10 February 2020. MoUs were exchanged between the state Agriculture Department and institutions, including the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), National Institute of Plant Health Management, M S Swaminathan Research Foundation, Central Fertiliser Quality, and Training Institute, and National Seed Research and Training Institute, Amaravati.
Aim:
The aim is to usher in revolutionary changes in the agriculture sector through technology and knowledge transfer to farmers in the state.
MoU Provisions:
Under the MoU, the institutions will provide technical assistance which will lead to a sustainable increase in farmers` income using organic and natural farming processes.
Rythu Bharosa Kendras:
♦ Also, the AP government is to set up 11,158 Rythu Bharosa Kendras across the state by June.
♦ It would be manned by agriculture, horticulture, veterinary and aquaculture assistants to guide farmers in best practices.
♦ These centres will have fertilizer, quality seed, and pesticides guaranteed by the state government.
♦ It aims to enhance farm management practices and train farmers in organic and natural farming.
India, Portugal signs Cooperation Agreement in the field of Maritime Transport and Ports:
A Cooperation Agreement was signed between India and the Republic of Portugal in the field of Maritime Transport and Ports on 14 February 2020. The objective of the agreement is to strengthen the coordination of Maritime transport between the two countries.
Agreement Highlights:
♦ The agreement will open avenues for cooperation to promote Maritime Transport between India and Portugal for better operation of their merchant fleets.
♦ It will also enhance cooperation to harmonize and unify their position with International Organization Institution, forums and conferences related to Maritime and Port activities.
♦ It will also help the two countries to coordinate accession to international conventions