Amaravati, February 8 India's agricultural sector must transition from a supply-driven model to one based on demand, and keep pace with changing dietary preferences, said Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Sunday.
Given that water is a scarce resource, it needs to be conserved as a priority, and the strategic linking of critical rivers is essential, Naidu said in an interview with
"Money is not a constraint. What is needed are proper public policies. If water is available, India will not have any problems regarding agricultural productivity. Farmers are ready to produce. Simultaneously, you need to guide what type of agriculture should be promoted. Again, it should be demand-driven, based on food habits, and also what is good for health," he said, emphasizing that the nutritional philosophy has evolved.
"Earlier, it was all about carbohydrates. Now, the focus has shifted to protein. Earlier, it was about very rich food. Now, it is about balanced nutrition. People are health-conscious," he stressed.
Naidu said that linking rivers could prevent the wastage of water that flows into the sea untapped. He emphasised that if executed smartly, it could turn water-scarce areas into water-surplus ones.
"Just like a bank balance, I am working on having a water balance. It has been my dream from the beginning, the Ganga-Kaveri linking. To start with, some people will resist, but those who are willing, you can work with them. Ultimately, you can link (the rivers)," he said.
