Puttaparthi, Andhra Pradesh: In a significant move to address the ongoing agrarian distress in drought-hit regions of Southern Andhra Pradesh, Union Agriculture Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan convened a high-level review meeting with the Andhra Pradesh state leadership, including ministers and senior officials. Held at the PGRS Hall in the District Collectorate, Puttaparthi, Sri Sathya Sai district, the meeting focused on drought mitigation strategies, the promotion of organic farming, and boosting cultivation under the National Palm Oil Mission.
The Union Minister emphasized the need for a sustainable and collaborative approach to address the acute water scarcity and recurring droughts faced by farmers in the Rayalaseema region, one of the most drought-prone zones in India.
Collaborative Framework for Drought Mitigation
Addressing the media after the review meeting, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan stated:
“This region faces specific challenges — low rainfall and frequent droughts, which put farming and farmers in distress. The current Andhra Pradesh government under the leadership of Chief Minister Shri Chandrababu Naidu has taken commendable steps to promote drip irrigation, horticulture, and farmer-centric governance.”
He added that an Integrated Action Plan will be developed jointly by the Centre and State, focused on short- and long-term solutions for agriculture sustainability, water conservation, and infrastructure development in the drought-hit districts.
Central Team of Experts to Visit Andhra Pradesh
In a key announcement, the Union Minister shared that a special multidisciplinary team will be sent by the Centre, including:
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Scientists from Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)
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Officials from the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare
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Experts from Rural Development, Watershed Management, and Land Resources
The team will undertake a comprehensive assessment of ground conditions and design actionable strategies to enhance climate-resilient agriculture, especially in areas suffering from rainfall deficit.
Integrated Farming and Climate-Resilient Practices
As part of a holistic approach, Shri Chouhan highlighted the promotion of Integrated Farming Systems, which include:
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Fruit and vegetable cultivation
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Agroforestry
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Beekeeping
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Animal husbandry
The minister also underlined the importance of developing and distributing drought-resistant seed varieties and diversifying crop patterns to reduce farmer vulnerability.
In addition, he assured that efforts will be made to enhance rainwater harvesting, undertake afforestation drives, and explore possibilities with the Ministry of Jal Shakti to divert water from the Tungabhadra and Krishna rivers to water-deficient zones of Rayalaseema.
Focus on Organic Farming and Palm Oil Mission
The review meeting also covered ways to scale up organic farming practices in Andhra Pradesh. The Minister emphasized that adopting organic and sustainable agricultural methods not only reduces input costs but also opens up export opportunities and health-conscious domestic markets.
Additionally, discussions were held on strengthening the National Edible Oil Mission – Oil Palm (NMEO-OP). The Union Government and the State are exploring suitable regions within Andhra Pradesh for expansion of palm oil plantations, including setting up processing infrastructure to ensure farmer profitability.
Political and Administrative Cooperation
Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan took a moment to praise Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu, stating:
“The development work done under the leadership of CM Naidu is commendable. Unlike the previous regime which diverted central funds and failed to support farmers adequately, the present administration is working in true federal spirit.”
The Minister affirmed that the Centre will continue to provide financial and technical support, and any bottlenecks in project execution will be jointly resolved.
Conclusion: Hope for the Rayalaseema Farmer
The Union Minister closed the session on an optimistic note:
“We have agreed to prepare an Integrated Action Plan, and both the State and Central governments will implement it together. I am confident that this cooperative strategy will help uplift farmers, ensure water security, and introduce a sustainable model of development in the affected districts.”
This engagement marks a pivotal step in India’s broader strategy to tackle climate-induced agricultural stress, align with sustainable development goals, and empower marginal farmers with modern technologies, scientific research, and infrastructural support.
Source: PIB
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