GUWAHATI, Jan 27 � Assam is aiming for a 9 per cent annual economic growth during the 12th Plan period (2012-17) with special emphasis being laid on agriculture, even as the government is committed to curbing inflation, Governor J B Patnaik said.
Addressing citizens of the State after unfurling the National Flag to mark the 65th Republic Day at the Veterinary College playground here on Sunday morning, Patnaik said fiscal measures adopted by the government have yielded favourbale results.
�The State is revenue surplus and there has been a steady increase in the collection of revenue. The annual average economic growth rate registered during the 11th Five Year Plan was 6.86 per cent. This is expected to reach 9 per cent by the end of the 12th Five Year Plan, if the current trend continues,� said the First Citizen of Assam.
Terming agriculture as being the vital sector in the State�s economy, he said uplifting small and marginal farmers would remain the government�s priority.
Patnaik said Assam achieved an all-time high production of 52.33 lakh MT of rice, with an overall foodgrain production of 56 lakh MT during 2012-13.���
�Agriculture in Assam is diversifying to activities such as horticulture, floriculture, organic farming, etc., in a visible manner. The dairy and fisheries sectors have a great role for food and nutritional security of the people of Assam and in the upliftment of the rural economy of our State. All efforts are being made to develop these sectors to their full potential,� he said.
He said strict measures have been taken to check prices of essential commodities.
