The state government has formulated a comprehensive action plan for the 'Global Horticulture Hub – Rayalaseema Rising' program, aiming to transform Rayalaseema, once known for drought, into a global center for horticultural products, stated State Agriculture and Horticulture Minister Kinjarapu Atchannaidu.
The main objective of this plan is to encourage farmers to shift from traditional low-income rain-fed crops to high-income horticultural crops that require less water, the minister noted. This initiative seeks to boost farmers' incomes significantly.
To address issues such as limited annual rainfall, frequent droughts, irrigation water scarcity, and lack of market linkage in the Rayalaseema region, a comprehensive Horticulture Development Plan (IHDP) has been formulated, as reported by Times Now Telugu.
Times Now Telugu also reported that Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu's foresight has always prioritized water use efficiency in agriculture. The government's district portal further states that the Andhra Pradesh Micro Irrigation Project (APMIP) was launched in November 2003 during Chandrababu's tenure as Chief Minister.
State Agriculture and Horticulture Minister Kinjarapu Atchannaidu announced that approximately ₹1 lakh crore in investments have been proposed for the comprehensive horticulture development plan in Rayalaseema. This substantial investment is expected to drive significant regional development.
This program is likely to benefit farmers in both Andhra Pradesh and Telangana by increasing horticultural production in Rayalaseema, which will create new market opportunities and strengthen the regional economy.
