SAVAŞ AKCAN: 75 PERCENT GRANT WILL CONTRIBUTE TO INCREASE AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION

"75 percent grant in seed will contribute to increase production in agriculture."

Turkey Seed Growers' Association (TÜRKTOB) Chairman of the Board of Savaş Akcan said that agricultural support carries much importance for the continuity of production.

Akcan said, "The 75 percent grant in seed has made us very happy. The support will contribute to an increase in production in this period."

Akcan told Anadolu Agency (AA) correspondent that they support the "Programme for Improving Crop Production" initiated by the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry in the fight against the new type of coronavirus (Covid-19) outbreak.

Indicating that 75 percent of seeds will be granted in 21 provinces designated within the scope of the said Programme, Akcan also noted, "We find very positive sowing idle lands across Turkey to agricultural production."

Pointing out that such supports should be given due to the epidemic, Akcan stated:

"It is very nice to encourage the farmer by giving grants in this way for the cultivation of idle lands and for the continuity of production. These were the supports that should have been already, the state realized this, they are moving quickly in this regard. 75 percent grant support in the seed made us very happy. Such supports, especially in this period, will contribute the increase in production. I hope this can also be realized for the products we purchase from outside. The scope of such supports should be enlarged for more products."


Considering that farmers do not want to produce imported products such as sunflower, corn and soy,  because of their costs being higher, Akcan added, "Our input costs are higher, but the subsidies such as 75 percent of this type, they fall down. Input costs come down fairly if this application also comprises diesel and other energy usage."

"Everyone has to take on the responsibility."

Akcan emphasized that these supports will be given to the certified seeds and thus the farmer's certified seed utilization rate will increase too.

Reminding that the project will cover 21 provinces, Akcan concluded:

"21 provinces were determined as regions probably where there exist idle agricultural lands and support was given. If you support the idle lands, you will benefit. You have to say that we are experiencing an extraordinary situation now. It does not mean much to put all kinds of problems to the state. 'Why doesn't the state help me?' This will not be the subject of the lesson today. The regions that have lost their charm must be developed. The determined provinces are suitable for the situation we are in. Everyone has to put their hands under the stone. Nobody can pull back here."