Jagdeo announces agri innovation hubs with support centres for every region under new PPP gov’t

Agriculture innovation hubs with support centres will be set up in every region in the next PPP government, Vice President and PPP General Secretary Dr Bharrat Jagdeo said on Thursday.

Dr Jagdeo said once re-elected, the PPP will focus heavily on further expanding the agriculture sector.

He said that to add to the innovation hubs, there will be diversification and technical support centres in each region. These will support the country’s food security efforts while encouraging more agro-processing.

But that’s not all. Jagdeo said planting materials will be provided to farmers, and individuals will be able to access zero-interest loans from the planned development bank to support agricultural ventures. He also noted that more study opportunities will be offered to those interested in pursuing agriculture.

“We will be creating an incentive regime for agriculture and small businesses,” Jagdeo said at his weekly press conference on Thursday.

The hemp sector has also been identified as one of the new areas of focus.

In Regions Two and Ten, about 4,000 acres of land (2,000 acres in each region) will be developed for hemp production. Around 2,000 farmers are expected to receive approximately two acres each to cultivate.