Hans News Service Rajamahendravaram

Agricultureminister K Atchannaidu called upon farmers to shift towards demand-based crop cultivation and adopt sustainable farming practices to improve incomes and protect soil health.

Speaking at a Kisan Mela at the agricultural research station in Maruteru of Penumantra mandal in Achanta constituency of West Godavari district on Wednesday, the minister said organic farming offers higher returns with lower input costs while ensuring healthier food for consumers. The event focused on the theme ‘Changing Climate Conditions-Sustainable Paddy Cultivation.’

The minister inspected laboratories at the research station and interacted with scientists to understand the latest developments in paddy varieties.

He also visited stalls set up by Acharya N G Ranga Agricultural University and private companies, showcasing modern farm machinery and technologies.

Addressing the gathering, he expressed concern over the excessive use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, which he said is degrading soil quality and increasing cultivation costs.

He stated that the government is providing training, subsidies and marketing support to encourage farmers to shift towards organic farming. Steps are also being taken to establish dedicated markets to ensure better prices for organic produce.

He noted that paddy varieties developed at the Maruteru research centre are achieving high yields in several states across the country and appreciated the efforts of agricultural scientists. With changing food habits among people, he advised farmers to align crop choices with market demand.

He directed officials and scientists to create awareness at the village level about suitable crops for different regions. Rajya Sabha MP Paka Venkata Satyanarayana stressed the importance of soil testing awareness among farmers and said interlinking of rivers in the state would help address irrigation challenges.

District collector Chadalavada Nagarani said a target of 7.25 lakh metric tonnes has been set for rabi procurement in the district.

Achanta MLA Pitani Satyanarayana, Tanuku MLA Arimilli Radhakrishna, Acharya NG Ranga Agricultural University vice-chancellor Dr R Sharada Jayalakshmi Devi, Horticulture University vice-chancellor Dhanunjaya Rao were among those present.