State seeks Rs 1,110 cr Central aid to expand micro-irrigation network
He submitted a comprehensive representation on two key issues—price support for Totapuri mango farmers in the erstwhile Chittoor district and enhanced subsidy for micro-irrigation schemes in the state's backward districts.
Atchannaidu emphasised that Totapuri mango growers were reeling under heavy losses due to excessive production and stock accumulation in pulp factories, leading to a market crash. To protect the interests of farmers, the Andhra Pradesh government launched a procurement scheme under which mangoes are being purchased at RS 12 per kg— Rs 8 from traders/factories and Rs 4 from the government.
The state sought ₹260 crore in financial assistance under the Market Intervention Scheme (MIS) from the Centre, requesting 100% central funding instead of the standard 50:50 share.
The minister also highlighted that nearly 6.5 lakh metric tonnes of mangoes are expected to be procured this season at a total cost of ₹780 crore. He urged the Union Minister to allow the scheme to run until August 2025, depending on market needs.
Additionally, Atchannaidu sought a policy revision for micro-irrigation subsidies in the eight backward districts of Andhra Pradesh. He requested an increase from the current 55% subsidy (33% GoI + 22% State share) to 90% (54% GoI + 36% State share) to support small and marginal farmers who cannot afford the current 45% farmer contribution. He also asked for ₹1,110 crore as additional central assistance, similar to the Bundelkhand model.
The Andhra Pradesh government aims to expand micro-irrigation to 15 lakh hectares over five years, with a goal of achieving 15% growth in the horticulture sector.
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