Full support assured to cotton farmers in AP: Minister Kinjarapu Acchenayudu

Andhra Pradesh’s cotton farmers need not worry, as the state government is fully backing them, assured Agriculture Minister Kinjarapu Acchenayudu. On Tuesday, the minister visited the CCI (Cotton Corporation of India) procurement centers in Perencherla and Sattenapalli to directly assess the challenges faced by farmers.

During his visit, Acchenayudu reviewed issues including cotton moisture levels, the procurement process, problems with the government app, and grading from L1 to L4. He also met farmers personally, listening to their concerns, and promised to take them up with the central government for solutions.

“Farmers should not be anxious. The government will ensure that every kilogram of cotton is purchased,” Acchenayudu emphasized. He acknowledged that this year, cotton cultivation faced multiple hurdles - unseasonal rains, lower yields, and strict CCI rules. Around 540,000 acres were sown with cotton in the state, with expected production of about 800,000 quintals. However, sudden rains affected cotton quality, and the new L1-L4 grading system added further complications for farmers. Acchenayudu stressed that the rules should be reviewed to avoid unfair treatment.

The minister also spoke with Union Minister Ram Mohan Naidu, explaining the issues faced by farmers. He urged the CCI chairman and MD to relax certain procurement rules. Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu reportedly directed that once MSP is announced, farmers should not face new regulations.

As a result, the Centre has approved opening additional mills to speed up procurement. From December 1, all mills in Sattenapalli will be fully operational, with one extra mill at Perencherla. Farmers are assured that cotton with moisture levels between 12% and 18% will also be procured. The government is coordinating with all departments to ensure smooth sales, while encouraging farmers to plan ahead and grow quality crops that are in demand.

Acchenayudu also took a dig at former CM YS Jagan Reddy, claiming that while the previous government promised support, it did not effectively implement it. He highlighted that the current government has given priority to agriculture, providing assistance for crops like banana, maize, cotton, tobacco, onion, and tomato. Farmers, including cotton cultivators, are promised full support.

The event saw participation from MP Narasaraopet Sri Krishnadevaraya, Tadikonda MLA Tenali Shravan Kumar, Sattenapalli MLA Kanna Lakshminarayana, marketing officials, committee heads, and numerous farmers.