4.12 RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT :

Agro Industrial units are required to compete in domestic and global markets with stringent quality standards. Such units, therefore, are required to upgrade their technology and introduce modernisation.

The State Government will encourage research and development activities in the State. The Government will provide assistance to agro industries for sponsored research work undertaken by reputed research institutions, upto 50% of the cost, within a ceiling of Rs.20.00 lacs.

 4.13 INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY :

Farmers, processors and planners will be requiring latest information related to agri business. The State is committed to develop suitable infrastructure for agri business to enable wide dissemination of information. Agri IT Kiosks will be set up in APMCs, Village Panchayat, Consuming Centers and would have connectivity with related departments of agriculture, universities, industries and international markets.

Government intends to prepare software for Agribusiness including availability and cost benefit analysis of inputs, documentation of best agronomic practices for various crops and varieties, weather forecast, market information, price projection, etc.

 4.14 CERTIFICATION AGENCY FOR ORGANIC FARMING :

Organically produced products are gaining popularity amongst the health conscious consumers worldwide. Such products attract premium. To encourage production of organic products and make them acceptable in the international market, the State will facilitate setting up of internationally recognised quality testing and certification laboratories in Gujarat.

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