Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu
The Andhra Pradesh government plans to give a boost to horticulture in the Rayalaseema and Prakasam regions in the State by investing ₹40,000 crore, with focus on increasing farmer incomes and enhancing market infrastructure.
Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Tuesday reviewed a comprehensive strategy aimed at raising farmer incomes and strengthening market infrastructure, with focus on fully utilising Purvodaya scheme funds for high-demand horticultural crops. The meeting emphasised the full utilisation of funds under the scheme to support farmers.
The Chief Minister directed officials to prioritise the cultivation of 18 globally sought after horticultural crops in Rayalaseema and Prakasam, out of the 65 crops grown in the region, and to provide farmers with the necessary infrastructure to maximise productivity and profitability. The plan includes developing roads, irrigation projects, and panchayat-level roads, with a total investment of ₹40,000 crore. The initiative aims to benefit nearly six lakh horticulture farmers across 92 clusters.
Mr. Naidu emphasised that Rayalaseema should be developed into a horticulture hub, with focus on certification, traceability, and international-quality production. Farmers must be encouraged to cultivate crops that have strong market demand. Micro-irrigation, organic farming, and high-quality table varieties will add value and ensure economic benefits for farmers. Like aquaculture, horticulture can become a leading sector for the region, he said.
The government plans to facilitate large-scale infrastructure for production, logistics, cold chains, and transport, including air cargo facilities for exports to international markets such as Dubai. Special initiatives will ensure that produce reaches global markets efficiently, potentially transforming the economic landscape of Rayalaseema.
Water supply improved
Finance Minister Payyavula Keshav highlighted that improved groundwater supply through projects like Handri-Neeva has eased horticulture cultivation in the region compared to previous years. Increased yields have already boosted farmer incomes and land values, as seen in districts like Anantapur.
A total of ₹14,800 crore is planned for specific horticulture projects, with ₹9,000 crore allocated as subsidies to support farmers directly. Key crops targeted include banana, guava, sapodilla plum (sapota), pomegranate, mango, onion, tomato, chilli, and lemon, ensuring the State capitalises on both domestic and international demand.
Senior officials from the Finance, Agriculture, Horticulture, Panchayat Raj, R&B, and Irrigation departments were present.
Published – November 25, 2025 07:45 pm IST
