Atchannaidu Highlights 51% Surge in Foodgrain Output, Slams Misinformation

State Agriculture Minister Kinjarapu Atchannaidu strongly criticised the alleged false propaganda being carried out by the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) in the state. He presented detailed statistics highlighting the significant achievements of the agriculture sector under the coalition government.

The minister accused YSRCP leaders, particularly the party’s chief advisor Sajjala Ramakrishna Reddy , of having a “special skill” in spreading misinformation and attempting to mislead the public.

He stated that during the previous YSRCP regime, farmers were burdened with debt and driven to suicides. In contrast, under the leadership of Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu , the present coalition government has transformed agriculture into a ‘festival’ once again .

Atchannaidu revealed that foodgrain production, which had fallen to 143 lakh metric tonnes in 2023–24 , was increased to 237 lakh metric tonnes within just one year , marking an approximate 51% growth . He described this as clear evidence of the government’s commitment.

Emphasising support for farmers, he said the government would not step back from ensuring remunerative prices . Allocations under the Price Stabilisation Fund (PSF) have been significantly increased, with about ₹588 crore provided to directly benefit farmers cultivating tobacco, mango, onion, and cocoa .

He further noted that compensation for onion farmers has been increased from ₹25,000 per hectare to ₹50,000 per hectare . Regarding maize farmers, he said continuous consultations are being held with Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan to ensure favourable decisions.

The minister also highlighted that the government has brought a micro-irrigation revolution in the state and cleared ₹881 crore in pending dues for drip and sprinkler systems that were left unsettled by the previous government, providing relief to farmers.

In line with Chandrababu Naidu’s vision , he said Rayalaseema is being developed into a global horticulture hub , while Andhra Pradesh has secured the top position in the country in oil palm cultivation .

Despite these developments, Atchannaidu warned that if YSRCP leaders continue to spread misinformation for political gains, the people will deliver a fitting response .