Andhra Agri Minister: NDA committed to protecting tobacco farmers, offers ₹20/kg aid

Published Jul 29, 02:36 PM UTC

Andhra Pradesh Agriculture Minister Kinjarapu Atchannaidu announced that the state and central governments have jointly decided to provide ₹20 per kg financial assistance to FCV tobacco farmers, with a total expenditure of ₹188 crore to support the procurement of 94 million kg of tobacco. The minister attributed the price slump to global market conditions, including cheaper imports from Brazil and Tanzania, and said the government is coordinating with the Centre, Tobacco Board, and traders to safeguard farmers' interests. He also urged farmers to complete registration for kharif crop insurance before the July 31 deadline, describing it as the best protection against losses from floods, drought, and other natural calamities. The minister directed officials to ensure every eligible farmer is covered under the scheme, reiterating that farmer welfare remains the coalition government's top priority.