Amaravati: Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has directed officials to advance the Kharif cultivation season as a strategic move to protect crops from the increasing frequency of cyclones. The state has been hit by 14 cyclones over the past two decades, most affecting the north coastal and East Godavari regions.
To implement this directive, irrigation water has already been released early to the Godavari and Krishna delta regions, enabling farmers to begin sowing ahead of schedule. Water is flowing through canals to fields in West Godavari, Eluru, Konaseema, East Godavari, Kakinada, and Krishna districts, with plans to begin irrigation in Guntur, Bapatla, and Prakasam by early July.
Crop Trends & Innovative Measures
Officials highlighted that the main Kharif crops include paddy, red gram, groundnut, and cotton. While groundnut and cotton acreage has declined, red gram cultivation has seen an uptick, and paddy cultivation remains stable.
To boost paddy farmers’ income, CM Naidu recommended intercropping fruits and vegetables on widened bunds between paddy fields. These bunds, he suggested, could be built using NREGA funds, and he also encouraged experimenting with aquaculture and horticulture along field peripheries.
Procurement & Crop Diversification
Officials updated the CM that procurement of HD Burley tobacco has started at the Parchur Agriculture Market Committee, with farmers reportedly satisfied. The government is also promoting alternative crops in place of HD Burley and monitoring the procurement of cocoa and mango.
Digital Agri Services & Soil Health
Three new services—crop insurance, agri mechanisation, and MARKFED support—have been integrated into the Mana Mitra WhatsApp governance platform, officials informed.
Naidu also emphasised reducing chemical fertiliser and pesticide usage to preserve soil fertility, setting a goal to reduce fertiliser use from 39 lakh tonnes to 35 lakh tonnes this year. He urged officials to ensure zero fertiliser shortages and monitor usage in real time.
Financial Support & Timely Credit
Highlighting the importance of timely financial support, the CM directed banks to disburse loans within 24 hours of a farmer’s request during the current season. He also called for increased focus on millet and pulse cultivation to enhance sustainability.