Andhra Pradesh Agriculture Minister Kinjarapu Atchannaidu on Wednesday said the coalition government was committed to protecting farmers’ interests and urged political leaders to avoid making statements that could negatively impact agricultural markets.

Addressing the media, Mr. Atchannaidu said that the State and Central governments had jointly decided to provide ₹20 per kg financial assistance to FCV tobacco farmers and were preparing to spend ₹188 crore to support the procurement of 94 million kg of tobacco.

The Minister attributed the price slump to global market conditions, including cheaper tobacco imports from countries such as Brazil and Tanzania, and said the government was coordinating with the Centre, Tobacco Board and traders to safeguard farmers’ interests.

Crop insurance

Mr. Atchannaidu also appealed to farmers to complete registration for kharif crop insurance before the July 31 deadline. Describing crop insurance as the best protection against losses caused by floods, drought and other natural calamities, he urged farmers not to wait until the last day.

He said registration could be completed through the PMFBY Crop Insurance Farmer App, Common Service Centres, banks, PACS and Agriculture Department officials.

The Minister directed officials to create awareness and ensure every eligible farmer was covered under the scheme, reiterating that farmer welfare remained the coalition government’s top priority.

Published - July 29, 2026 08:05 pm IST