Agriculture Minister Atchannaidu pushes crop planning for sustainability

Vijayawada: Andhra Pradesh Agriculture Minister Kinjarapu Atchannaidu has stressed the need for scientific crop planning and diversification to ensure long-term sustainability and improve farmers’ incomes across the state.

Speaking in the State Assembly, the minister said excessive dependence on paddy cultivation has led to problems such as market glut and increasing pressure on groundwater resources. He noted that nearly 38.97 lakh farmers cultivated paddy during the 2025–26 crop year, with 26.94 lakh during the kharif season and 12.03 lakh during rabi. The government is therefore encouraging farmers to adopt diversified cropping patterns suited to soil conditions, water availability and market demand.

Atchannaidu said the state government is promoting crops such as pulses, millets and oilseeds through awareness campaigns, supply of quality seeds, technical guidance and assured marketing support. The initiative aims to help farmers shift gradually to more profitable and sustainable alternatives while reducing stress on natural resources.

The minister clarified that the government is not asking farmers to stop cultivating paddy completely but is encouraging them to move towards high-quality and export-oriented varieties. He added that changing food habits, fluctuating market demand and water constraints make crop diversification increasingly important for the future of agriculture.

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As part of the strategy, the government plans to undertake crop diversion across about 15 lakh hectares from Rayalaseema to Prakasam district, aiming to develop the region into a horticulture hub. A large investment plan—estimated at around ₹1 lakh crore with participation from the Centre and private sector—is also being considered to strengthen horticulture and allied sectors.

The minister said the overall goal is to make farming more resilient, water-efficient and profitable, ensuring sustainable growth for the agricultural sector and better livelihoods for farmers.

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