Agriculture – Andhra Pradesh Seeks Urgent Support as Maize Prices Drop
Agriculture – Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has approached the Union government, calling for immediate intervention to support maize farmers in Andhra Pradesh during the ongoing 2025–26 rabi season. In a letter addressed to Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, the Chief Minister outlined the growing financial strain faced by cultivators as market prices continue to decline sharply.
Falling Market Prices Raise Farmer Concerns
Naidu pointed out that maize is currently being sold in open markets at rates between Rs 1,600 and Rs 1,700 per quintal. This is significantly below the officially declared minimum support price of Rs 2,400, leaving farmers with reduced returns on their produce. The situation has created widespread anxiety among cultivators, particularly in regions heavily dependent on maize farming.
The Chief Minister noted that the state is anticipating a total maize production of around 42.06 lakh metric tonnes this season. In addition, nearly 14.26 lakh metric tonnes are still in the process of being harvested. With such a large volume entering the market, the price pressure is expected to continue unless corrective measures are introduced quickly.
Demand for Central Scheme Implementation
In his communication, Naidu urged the Centre to extend the benefits of the Price Deficiency Payment Scheme under PM-AASHA to maize farmers in Andhra Pradesh. This scheme aims to compensate farmers for the gap between the minimum support price and the actual market price, ensuring that they do not incur losses due to price fluctuations.
He emphasized that direct payment of the price difference would provide immediate financial relief and help maintain stability in the agricultural sector. The Chief Minister also requested that Andhra Pradesh be considered as a special case, with the Central government covering the entire financial burden associated with the scheme’s implementation.
Call for Extended Timeline and Agency Support
Naidu further appealed for the extension of the scheme until June 2026, allowing adequate time to address the ongoing challenges faced by maize growers. He also sought prompt approval for implementing the scheme through agencies such as NAFED and AP Markfed to ensure smooth and efficient execution.
According to the Chief Minister, without central assistance, the responsibility of procurement and financial support would fall entirely on the state government. This could place additional pressure on state resources and delay relief efforts for farmers.
Rising Discontent in Key Farming Regions
The appeal comes at a time when concerns are intensifying across Andhra Pradesh’s maize-producing regions. Farmers have expressed dissatisfaction over falling prices and have begun raising demands for stronger government intervention. The declining market rates have not only affected incomes but also created uncertainty about future cultivation decisions.
Naidu highlighted that timely action from the Centre is crucial to prevent further distress. He warned that without adequate support, farmers could face significant financial losses, which may impact the broader agricultural economy of the state.
Focus on Immediate Relief and Long-Term Stability
The Chief Minister’s request reflects a dual objective: providing immediate financial protection to farmers and ensuring long-term stability in maize production. By advocating for direct compensation through an existing central scheme, the state aims to address both short-term price shocks and structural challenges in agricultural markets.
With harvesting still underway and market trends remaining uncertain, the coming weeks are expected to be critical for maize farmers in Andhra Pradesh. The response from the Central government will likely play a key role in shaping outcomes for thousands of cultivators dependent on this crop.