AP Pushes for Major Agricultural Boost; Naidu Meets Shivraj Singh

CM Chandrababu Naidu requests Union Minister Shivraj Singh to release funds for community farming to boost the agricultural sector
New Delhi, Feb10(TIM Bureau): AP Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu, who is on a visit to Delhi, met Shivraj Singh Chouhan. The CM discussed with the Union Minister the steps being taken for the development of agriculture and allied sectors in the state. He requested the release of funds to expand Community Managed Natural Farming. He appealed for incentives to be given due to reducing the use of chemical fertilizers. He requested Rs. 216 crore for the year 2024-25. He explained that the use of chemicals in agriculture was reduced by 2.28 percent in 2024-25. He said that organic farming is being promoted across the state. He said that so far 18 lakh farmers have expressed their consent to organic farming in 8 lakh hectares. He requested assistance of Rs. 200 crore to develop coconut cultivation in Andhra Pradesh. He appealed for cooperation in setting up a coconut processing park, setting up modern tender coconut markets on the lines of Karnataka, training coconut farmers on advanced methods, and expanding nurseries. He asked for the establishment of a Makhana Development Board in AP.

He appealed for the necessary incentives to be given to Makhana cultivation in 50,000 acres in the Kolleru Lake area. AP’s share in the country’s agricultural sector is 10 percent, Rural Development Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said. On this occasion, the Union Minister said that AP is becoming a horticulture hub. Cashew nuts, coffee, cocoa, and coconut are being grown in abundance in the state, and he will ensure that farmers get support prices. He said that AP’s role is crucial in achieving the goal of Atmanirbhar Bharat. He assured that the Center will support AP’s agricultural development in every way. He said that the Center has appointed a special team for this. He promised to support AP in matters of central schemes and technology. He said that he is helping in the development of fisheries and animal husbandry. He said that AP is doing well in organic farming and palm oil production. He said that he will help in every way for the expansion of organic farming.