Andhra Pradesh's Visionary Agri-Revolution: Expanding Horticulture and Strengthening Farming

Andhra Pradesh's Chief Minister, N Chandrababu Naidu, has outlined an ambitious plan to bolster the state's agriculture sector, focusing on expanding horticulture to 50 lakh acres and establishing a cocoa city. The initiative seeks to increase farmer incomes and promote crop diversity.

During a meeting with officials in Guntur district, the CM emphasized the need for a cluster-based development model to transform Rayalaseema into a horticulture hub. Naidu also directed officials to educate farmers about market-driven crops and advocate multi-cropping systems.

The plans further include promoting natural farming, supporting BPL farmer families with supplementary income opportunities, and implementing the Pre-Monsoon Dry Sowing (PMDS) initiative to improve yields and reduce cultivation costs. An emphasis is placed on technological tools like the 'Farmer App' to optimize farming practices.