Ensuring Agricultural Prosperity: CM Reddy's Vision for Farmer-First Policies in Andhra Pradesh

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy has unequivocally asserted that ensuring the complete and timely provision of fertilizers to farmers is an absolute priority for the state government. In a recent high-level review meeting with top officials, the Chief Minister issued stringent directives, leaving no room for doubt: there must be zero shortage of fertilizers as the crucial Kharif season approaches.

CM Reddy's vision extends far beyond mere supply; it encompasses a holistic approach to agricultural prosperity.

He emphasized the critical need for constant vigilance, urging officials to regularly monitor the availability and distribution of fertilizers across every district. This proactive stance aims to preempt any potential bottlenecks and ensure that every farmer has access to the essential inputs required for a bountiful harvest.

But the Chief Minister's directives didn't stop at fertilizers.

He meticulously reviewed the progress of several flagship agricultural initiatives designed to uplift the farming community. A significant focus was placed on enhancing robust marketing facilities for various agricultural produce, addressing key crops like bananas, tomatoes, oil palm, millets, and onions.

The goal is to empower farmers to secure better prices for their hard-earned produce, reducing reliance on intermediaries.

Furthermore, CM Reddy underscored the importance of strengthening the Rythu Bharosa Kendras (RBKs), the innovative farmer support centers. He directed an increase in the storage capacity at these centers, aiming to accommodate up to 2,000 tonnes for pulses and paddy.

This expansion is crucial for effective post-harvest management, preventing wastage, and enabling farmers to store their crops until market conditions are favorable.

The review also covered the advancement of the "Jagananna Palavelluva" program, a transformative milk revolution aimed at boosting the dairy sector, and the state's ambitious aquaculture initiatives.

The Chief Minister called for intensified efforts to promote value-added products and establish strong branding for agricultural output, thereby enhancing marketability and profitability for farmers.

Looking to the future, CM Reddy stressed the necessity of expanding cold storage facilities and establishing more processing units, crucial infrastructure for preserving produce and creating higher-value goods.

In a nod to modern agricultural practices, he also advocated for the greater utilization of drones in agriculture, recognizing their potential to revolutionize farming through precision spraying, monitoring, and data collection. With these comprehensive measures, Andhra Pradesh is set on a path to secure agricultural growth and unwavering support for its farming backbone.