The comprehensive rural development programme aims to raise rural income, increase food production, improve the viability of small farms and draw on the economic potential of rural areas. A two-year pilot project was launched in Limpopo and will inform the rollout of the programme. Support to the beneficiaries of land will be stepped up to properly skill and equip these beneficiaries. An additional number of 1000 extension officers will be recruited over the next three years and their skills level will be enhanced and necessary tools will be provided. An amount of R4.1 billion is allocated to provinces through respective grants to support emerging farmers. Agricultural starter packs will be provided to 140 000 households per year. A total spending on rural development is expected to rise from approximately R6 billion in 2009/10 financial year to approximately R8 billion in 2012/13 financial year. The HSRC is of the view that rural areas have been neglected for many years. Poor conditions in respect of water and land are among the challenges experienced in these areas. About 40 per cent of the South African population lives in rural areas and less than 10 per cent are economically active, mostly in agricultural activities. This was noted as a sign of lack of support and channelling of resources. Growing spending on rural development from R6 billion to R8 billion by 2012/13 financial year was noted to be a large increase but still very small relative to the challenge and levels of neglect in rural areas.