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The Andhra Pradesh government has demonstrated a strong commitment to the agricultural sector by allocating a significant budget of Rs 43,402 crore for the upcoming fiscal year 2024-25. Agriculture Minister K Atchannaidu, emphasizing Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu's vision for prioritizing the sector, highlighted the introduction of a new tenant protection Act in the assembly. This legislation aims to address the shortcomings of existing laws and ensure adequate safeguards for tenant farmers. The minister attributed the previous regime's neglect of the agriculture sector to the current state of farmers, vowing to revitalize numerous welfare schemes that were discontinued during the previous term.
The government's focus on modernizing agricultural practices is evident in the proposed deployment of drones for revolutionizing farming techniques. This initiative, combined with the utilization of remote sensing agencies for precise soil testing, underscores the government's commitment to leveraging technology for improving agricultural efficiency. The budget allocation of Rs 38.88 crore for soil testing demonstrates their dedication to providing farmers with accurate data for optimized resource management. The government's commitment to farmer welfare is further reinforced by the allocation of Rs 240 crore for subsidized seed distribution and Rs 40 crore for subsidized fertilizer provision.
Recognizing the significance of the agriculture sector for the state's population, with 62% reliant on it, the government plans to continue the 'Polam Pilustondi' program. This initiative aims to educate farmers during both Kharif and Rabi seasons through sessions led by senior officials and agricultural scientists. The program's emphasis on addressing farmer concerns directly in the field reflects the government's proactive approach to assisting farmers. Furthermore, the government is actively promoting the adoption of natural farming practices, aiming to reduce dependence on chemical pesticides and fertilizers. The initiative aims to reduce input costs for farmers and enhance the quality of agricultural produce while promoting environmentally sustainable practices. The allocated Rs 422 crore for natural farming practices emphasizes the government's dedication to fostering this transition.
Source: Andhra Pradesh budget: Rs 43,402 crore allocated for agriculture budget 2024-25