By Prior Beharry
THE Government of Trinidad and Tobago has accepted a gift of rice and edible oils from the largest apex cooperative in Haryana, India.
This was revealed by Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley at the post-Cabinet media conference on Thursday at Whitehall.
Dr Rowley said the donation comprises 25 metric tonnes of premium quality basmati rice, 20 tonnes of parboiled rice, five metric tonnes of steel rice, and a shipment of edible oils by the Haryana State Cooperative Supply and Marketing Federation Ltd (HAFED).
He expressed gratitude for this gesture of goodwill on behalf of the people of Trinidad and Tobago, saying that he has asked the Minister of Social Development and Family Services to distribute the items to needy people.
Dr Rowley said the gesture arose from the interest of Haryana officials in exploringvopportunities with Trinidad and Tobago to set up a rice mill.
He said HAFED is a significant player in the agricultural sector, processing millions of metric tonnes of commodities annually and boasting a substantial annual turnover.
Dr Rowley said in addition to establishing a rice mill in the country it also wanted to explore agricultural partnerships, including educational and equipment exchanges.
The Trade Ministry has been tasked with facilitating the receipt of the shipment, while the Ministry of Social Development and Family Services will develop a programme to ensure the equitable distribution of these essential food items to those most in need within Trinidad and Tobago.
