The Address mentions that foodgrain production last year was a record 209 million tons. But I wish to ask whether this record production has helped in alleviating poverty and hunger. I would like to know from the Government how these starving poor are going to be helped. In Para 23, there is a reference to farmers and the shedding of crocodile tears by the Government in favour of farmers against unfair global competition. But there is no mentions as to how would the Government protect the farmers and the domestic industry after 1 st April this year, when the Quantitative Restrictions will be completely removed.
Irrigation is an integral part of farming.
But I am sorry to say that there is no mention about solution to the vexed Cauvery issue and the Periyar Dam issue. My revered leader, Dr. Puratchi Thalaivi, had gone on hunger strike to get the due share of Cauvery water for Tamil Nadu. But I do not know what the stand of the NDA Government is. A lot of vacancies reserved for them are not being filled for various reasons. These vacancies must be filled within a time frame.