AP agriculture budget earmarks Rs 53,752 cr to strengthen rural economy

Amaravati: Reaffirming its commitment to strengthen the rural economy and make farming a profitable enterprise, Andhra Pradesh govt on Saturday presented a budget outlay of Rs 53,752.12 crore for agriculture and allied sectors. Out of this, Rs 14,276.89 crore was earmarked for maintenance and construction of irrigation projects, underscoring the govt's focus on water security for farmers.Presenting the agriculture budget in the legislative assembly, agriculture minister K Atchannaidu said the state can achieve economic prosperity only when the rural economy becomes strong. "Agriculture must become profitable. Only then will rural economy thrive, which in turn will aid in the state's progress. Andhra Pradesh recorded a 7.83 percent growth rate in the agriculture sector and contributes nearly 10 percent to the country's total agricultural production. As part of ‘Swarnandhra-2047' vision, the govt has identified 11 crops as growth engines to achieve a targeted 15 percent annual growth rate," the minister said.Highlighting the govt's farmer welfare initiatives, Atchannaidu said Rs 20,000 per farmer family is being provided annually under ‘Annadata Sukhibhav' and ‘PM Kisan' schemes. "Pending arrears related to grain procurement were cleared to support farmers. The govt launched ‘Rayatanna Meekosam' initiative to directly address farmers' grievances and ensure timely assistance," he said, while underlining the importance of "Farmer Agritech" as one of the key principles to achieve Swarnandhra-2047."Modern technologies such as artificial intelligence, internet of things (IoT), drones, and robotics are being introduced to improve productivity and reduce input costs. The govt is also taking steps to ensure irrigation water reaches every acre," he added, while urging the youth to view agriculture as a viable and profitable career.KEY ALLOCATIONSRs 13,722 crore for free power to farmersRs 6,600 crore for Annadatha Sukhibava crop insurance schemeRs 204 crore for oil palm plantationsRs 475 crore for micro irrigationRs 175 crore for integrated development of horticulture