Minister of Agriculture Dmitry Patrushev and Governor of the Kaliningrad Region Anton Alikhanov held a working meeting as part of the All-Russian Field Day 2022 exhibition, reports press service of the Ministry of Agriculture of Russia.
The parties discussed the results and prospects for the development of the agro-industrial complex and rural areas, the course of the harvesting campaign and preparations for the new season, the development of the reclamation complex and other topical issues.
In 2021, a record harvest of open and protected ground vegetables, fruits and berries was obtained in the Kaliningrad region. The harvest of an important export crop, rapeseed, has grown.
Now regional farmers have already started harvesting a new crop, the campaign is running normally. According to the head of the Ministry of Agriculture, the grain yield at the moment exceeds 65 centners per hectare. This is an impressive figure, which should affect the final volumes. Yield growth largely depends on the level of application of mineral fertilizers, and in this matter the Kaliningrad region is among the leaders. Last year's figure is 165 kg per hectare, and plans for the current year are even higher.
In addition, the issue of putting land into circulation and the development of melioration is of particular importance. This year, 18 projects worth 70 million rubles will be financed in the region as part of a specialized state program.
Speaking about the important tasks for the region in the field of crop production, the minister noted that, taking into account the geographical location, special attention should be paid to increasing the production of potatoes and vegetables. “The Kaliningrad region should achieve sustainable self-sufficiency in these products. In addition, under special control, especially given the existing logistical difficulties, there should be issues of high-quality preparation for winter sowing and sowing in 2023. I ask you to personally verify the resolution of issues regarding the import of seeds, fertilizers, plant protection products, equipment and spare parts,” Dmitry Patrushev emphasized.
The agricultural production index in 2021 exceeded 105%. In addition, wages in the industry are also on the rise. The Ministry of Agriculture expects that the trends will continue in the current year.
“The agro-industrial complex is one of the key sectors of the economy of the Kaliningrad region, which ensures food security. In recent years, our agricultural industry has shown consistently high performance. We do not stop and continue to plan and implement new projects. Our achievements are largely due to the support and attention of the Ministry of Agriculture of Russia. Separately, I want to thank you for the decision to hold the main industry event in our region,” said Anton Alikhanov.
Separately, at the meeting, issues of state support for farmers were considered. Last year, the subject was provided with 1,7 billion rubles for these purposes, bringing it to 99,8%. In 2022, the amount of funds increased to 1,8 billion rubles.