Agriculture – Andhra Pradesh Seeks Urgent Relief for Maize Farmers
Agriculture – Andhra Pradesh has approached the central government for immediate support to address the growing financial distress among maize farmers, as falling market prices continue to impact livelihoods across the state.
The move comes after concerns were raised about a sharp drop in maize prices during the ongoing Rabi 2025–26 season, despite a significant increase in production. The state government has urged the Centre to step in with financial assistance and policy measures to prevent further hardship for farmers.
Rising Production, Falling Prices Create Crisis
During the current Rabi season, maize cultivation expanded considerably in Andhra Pradesh, covering nearly 4.83 lakh hectares. Production is estimated at around 37.61 lakh metric tonnes, marking a strong output compared to previous years. However, the surge in supply has not been matched by demand in the market.
As a result, prices have slipped below the Minimum Support Price, leaving farmers unable to recover their costs. Many cultivators, facing urgent financial needs, are reportedly selling their produce at significantly lower rates, leading to mounting losses.
State Government Flags Urgent Need for Intervention
Highlighting the seriousness of the situation, the state leadership has communicated to the Union government that immediate intervention is essential. Officials warned that the situation could deteriorate further as peak arrivals of maize are expected to continue until June 2026.
The state has emphasized that without timely support, a large number of farmers could face prolonged financial strain, affecting both rural incomes and agricultural sustainability.
Proposal for Price Deficiency Payment Scheme
In its appeal, Andhra Pradesh has requested permission to implement the Price Deficiency Payment Scheme under the Market Intervention Scheme. The proposal includes involvement of national and state agencies to ensure effective execution.
Under this mechanism, farmers would be compensated for the gap between the Minimum Support Price and the prevailing market rates. This approach is aimed at protecting farmers from being forced into distress sales and ensuring fair returns for their produce.
Demand for Full Financial Support from Centre
The state has also urged the Centre to treat the situation as a special case and bear the entire financial burden of the scheme. Currently, such schemes typically operate on a shared funding basis between the Centre and states.
Additionally, the government has requested that the scheme’s coverage be expanded to include the entire maize output, rather than limiting it to a portion of production. This, officials believe, would ensure that all affected farmers benefit from the support.
Extension of Support Until Peak Season Ends
Another key request made by the state is to extend the scheme until June 2026. This timeline aligns with the peak arrival period of maize in the market, when price pressures are expected to remain high.
Authorities argue that a continued support mechanism during this phase would help stabilize prices and provide farmers with a safety net during a critical period.
Focus on Governance and Policy Developments
Alongside agricultural concerns, the state government has also highlighted its progress in administrative reforms. It noted that Andhra Pradesh has set an example in implementing Mission Karmayogi, a programme aimed at improving governance through technology-driven learning.
Officials have encouraged government employees to actively participate in upcoming training initiatives, including courses focused on emerging technologies, to strengthen public service delivery.
Support for Fuel Price Relief Measures
In a separate development, the state leadership welcomed the Union government’s decision to reduce excise duty on petrol and diesel. The move has been described as beneficial for the general public, particularly in the context of global price fluctuations.
The reduction is expected to ease financial pressure on households and contribute to overall economic stability.
Call for Timely Action
The state government has reiterated that swift approval of its proposals is crucial to safeguard farmers’ interests. With lakhs of maize growers affected, timely intervention is seen as key to preventing further distress and ensuring stability in the agricultural sector.