China officially launched a nationwide initiative Thursday to enhance its grain production, targeting at increasing average annual grain production by 5 billion kilograms between 2006 and 2010.

The move aims to make China basically self-sufficient in grain supply, said Chen Mengshan, an official with the Ministry of Agriculture

Priorities of the initiative include the promotion of high-yield seeds, scientific application of fertilizers based on soil type and more efficient pest prevention and control, said Chen.

Another highlight is the protection and improvement of arable lands, including building small water conservation projects.

Governments at various levels should also encourage and support the development of large-scale farming, farmers' cooperatives and industrialization of agricultural sector, he said.

(Xinhua News Agency March 3, 2006)