The Representatives of the local government of the Samtskhe-Javakheti Region familiarized themselves with the State Program “Access to State-Owned Pastures”
Otar Shamugia, the Deputy Minister of Environment Protection and Agriculture of Georgia, and Giorgi Misheladze, the Chairman of the National Agency for Sustainable Land Management and Land Use Monitoring, held discussions with Besik Amiranashvili, the State Representative of the Samtskhe-Javakheti Rregion, and the mayors of the municipalities within the region, regarding the details of the State Program "Access to State-Owned Pastures."
The "Access to State-Owned Pastures" program facilitates livestock owners in acquiring and utilizing desired pastures through an auction-based three-year lease agreement. Approved by the Government of Georgia on October 6th of this year, the program aims to promote efficient pasture utilization, prevent pasture degradation, and stimulate growth in the livestock sector by establishing clear private responsibility for pasture management.
At the meeting, it was emphasized that the role of local government is particularly significant in the implementation of the program, as the selection of state-owned pastures for lease is done in collaboration with the relevant municipality.
By incorporating specific conditions into the program, we ensure that only farmers with livestock can utilize the pastures – this is of utmost importance. We have initiated meetings with local authorities in various regions to thoroughly discuss the significance of the program and the terms of participation. As we proceed with program implementation, our priority is to first identify the land parcels available for lease, followed by prospective applicants submitting their applications," stated Otar Shamugia during a meeting with the Representative of the Region and mayors.
According to the State Representative of the Samtskhe-Javakheti region, the program holds significant importance for the region. Proper administration will ensure that pastures are utilized efficiently by farmers engaged in animal husbandry.
