Union Minister Offers Support to Farmers Affected by Cyclones in Andhra Pradesh

Union Minister Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar has vowed to provide full support to farmers in Andhra Pradesh who have been affected by recent cyclones 'Arnab' and 'Murasu'. During an inspection trip to Kollipara Mandal in Guntur District, the Minister expressed concern over the extensive damage to paddy, black gram, and cotton crops.

Speaking alongside MLC Alapati Rajendra Prasad, Mr. Chandra Sekhar highlighted that despite achieving high yields of nearly 50 bags per acre this year, farmers faced significant challenges due to the cyclones. He assured that the government would extend an additional ₹20,000 under the Annadata Sukhibhava-PM Kisan scheme and would provide input subsidies once the crop losses were assessed.

The Chief Minister, N. Chandrababu Naidu, had already written to the Union Home Minister, Amit Shah, requesting central assistance. Mr. Chandra Sekhar emphasized that his priority was to ensure that every affected farmer received the necessary support. He directed officials to complete the crop-loss enumeration within 48 to 72 hours, prioritizing those engaged in election duties.

The Minister also appealed to landowners to ensure that input subsidies reach tenant farmers, stressing the importance of maintaining their financial stability for continued agricultural activities. He encouraged farmers to enroll in crop insurance schemes to protect themselves against future natural calamities.

Scientists from the Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University were assigned to guide farmers on crop protection and disaster management. Mr. Chandra Sekhar urged these experts to visit fields regularly and provide timely advice.

With ongoing subsidies and insurance options available, the Union Minister aims to alleviate the distress caused by the cyclones and support farmers in their recovery efforts.