Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has called on the Union government to urgently intervene to protect maize farmers from severe financial distress caused by falling market prices. In a detailed letter to Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Naidu noted that during the Rabi 2025‑26 season, maize cultivation in the state expanded to 4.83 lakh hectares, with production estimated at 37.61 lakh metric tonnes. Despite this bumper output, market rates have fallen below the Minimum Support Price (MSP), forcing farmers to sell at a loss.
The Chief Minister requested that the Centre permit the implementation of the Price Deficiency Payment Scheme (PDPS) under the Market Intervention Scheme (MIS) for maize through NAFED, in coordination with AP Markfed. Naidu emphasized that Andhra Pradesh should be treated as a special case, urging the government to bear 100% of the financial burden instead of the current 50:50 sharing pattern. He also proposed expanding the scheme’s coverage from the existing 25% to 100% of maize production, ensuring all affected farmers receive compensation. The CM further requested that the scheme continue until June 2026, covering the peak arrival season and preventing distress sales.
Agriculture Minister Kinjarapu Atchannaidu, who raised the issue with the Chief Minister, highlighted the urgency of intervention. He explained that the surplus production combined with subdued market demand had led to a sharp drop in prices, exacerbating financial stress among farmers. Many are being compelled to sell at rates far below MSP to meet immediate financial needs, potentially undermining livelihoods.
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Naidu also drew attention to the broader governance initiatives in the state. Highlighting Andhra Pradesh’s progress in Mission Karmayogi, he shared that the Sadhana Saptah National Learning Week from April 2–8, 2026 aims to strengthen the skills of government employees through technology-driven learning. The initiative includes mandatory AI training and reflects the state’s commitment to future-ready governance and efficient public service delivery.
On energy policy, the CM praised the Centre’s decision to cut excise duties on petrol and diesel, describing it as a “people-centric move” that will provide relief amid global price volatility. He stated, “The true strength of leadership is proven in testing times. India is fortunate to have Prime Minister Narendra Modi providing stability amid challenging global conditions. The reduction in fuel duties will help shield the common man from global price shocks.”
The combination of immediate support for farmers and long-term governance reforms demonstrates the state government’s focus on both economic relief and institutional strengthening. With the Rabi maize season contributing significantly to the rural economy, timely implementation of Naidu’s proposals could provide crucial financial security to thousands of farmers across Andhra Pradesh.
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