Farmer Producer Organisations Essential for Rural Economic Growth: Naidu
Nallajerla (Andhra Pradesh): Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Wednesday said FPOs are essential to transform farmers into entrepreneurs and strengthen rural economic activities across the state.
Addressing farmers during the ‘Raitanna Meekosam’ (for fellow farmers) program in East Godavari district, Naidu said agriculture should go beyond cultivation and create value addition through agro-based industries and Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) at the village level.
“Farmer Producer Organizations are vital to transform farmers into entrepreneurs and boost rural economic growth across the state,” Naidu said.
During his meeting, the prime minister inquired about major crops and intercrops in the region and sought suggestions to ensure long-term water security.
He also spoke to farmers who have switched from paddy to oil palm cultivation and congratulated those who have adopted improved farming methods, emphasizing the need to explore techniques that could help increase groundwater levels.
Naidu said water will be provided through Polavaram and Tadipudi lift irrigation projects and urged farmers to reduce fertilizer use and adopt micronutrient practices, noting that such practices can fetch high prices.
The TDP chief said oil palm waste can be used as fertilizer and advised dairy farmers to grow fodder en masse on designated land, providing support through National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (NREGS) funds for grass cultivation.
He also announced the relocation of electricity poles located among palm oil plantations and encouraged farmers to adopt horticulture, agro-processing and similar sectors to strengthen household income.
Observing that many farmers today are well-educated, the prime minister stated that they should engage in both agriculture and the service sector, adding that the government is determined to encourage entrepreneurial families.
Naidu alleged that the previous YSRCP government committed widespread irregularities in revenue and land issues, causing distress to farmers.
He claimed that his policies had plunged the state into “destruction and insecurity” and created long-term challenges that the NDA coalition government must address.
The prime minister also accused the opposition of neglecting the highlands, favoring delta regions and undermining agriculture during his 2019-2024 term, while asserting that his government was working to restore confidence and ensure equitable development.
