Agriculture News

A pilot project aimed at enhancing crop productivity through crop diversification has been launched in Nandyal district. The initiative seeks to encourage farmers to adopt a wider range of crops, including millets, pulses, oilseeds, and horticultural crops, alongside traditional cultivation practices. Agricultural experts believe that crop diversification can improve soil health, reduce dependency on a single crop, minimize risks associated with climate variability, and increase farmers’ incomes. Under the project, farmers will receive technical guidance, training, and support from the Agriculture Department to implement modern and sustainable farming methods. Officials expressed confidence that the initiative will promote long-term agricultural sustainability and contribute to improved productivity and profitability for farmers across the district

Crop loans in Nandyal district have grown 14 per cent compared to last year, reaching ₹6,904 crore as of March this year, indicating a strong push towards farm financing. Overall banking business in the district has also recorded significant growth. By March 11, 2026, the total business of all banks in the district reached ₹34,219.38 crore. In line with the Reserve Bank of India guidelines, banks are striving to maintain a credit deposit ratio of 60 per cent while continuing credit expansion. In terms of market share, State Bank of India (SBI) holds the top position with 44 branches and a share of 29.03 per cent. Andhra Pragathi Grameena Bank follows with 60 branches and a market share of 15.90 per cent, while Union Bank of India stands at 15.40 per cent share with 40 branches. Compared to June 30, 2025, total advances in the district increased substantially by March 11. Loans rose from ₹20,871.20 crore to ₹22,823.37 crore, registering a growth of ₹1,952.17 crore.

Farmers staged a demonstration at the Nandyal warehouse, protesting against the state government and demanding transparent crop procurement procedures and an adequate supply of urea fertilizer. The protesters alleged delays and irregularities in the procurement process, which they said were causing financial difficulties for farming communities. They also expressed concern over the shortage of urea during the crucial cultivation season, urging authorities to ensure timely availability of fertilizers at all agricultural centers. Farmer leaders called on the government to address their grievances immediately and implement measures that would support agricultural productivity and safeguard farmer livelihoods. The protest concluded with a memorandum submitted to the concerned officials, seeking prompt action on their demands.

A two-day training programme on crop diversification concluded successfully in Nandyal, bringing together farmers, agricultural officers, and experts to discuss sustainable farming practices and income-enhancing crop options. The programme focused on encouraging farmers to diversify beyond traditional crops by adopting millets, pulses, oilseeds, horticultural crops, and integrated farming systems. Experts highlighted the importance of crop diversification in improving soil health, reducing cultivation risks, conserving water resources, and increasing farm profitability. Participants received practical guidance on modern cultivation techniques, market opportunities, government support schemes, and climate-resilient agricultural practices. Farmers actively interacted with resource persons and shared their experiences, making the programme a valuable platform for knowledge exchange. The training concluded with a call for wider adoption of diversified cropping systems to ensure sustainable agricultural growth and improved livelihoods in the Nandyal region.

Millets are witnessing a remarkable resurgence in Kurnool and Nandyal districts as farmers and consumers increasingly recognize their nutritional and environmental benefits. Crops such as jowar, bajra, ragi, foxtail millet, and little millet are gaining popularity due to their resilience to drought conditions and lower water requirements compared to traditional crops. Government initiatives, awareness campaigns, and growing health consciousness among consumers have further encouraged millet cultivation and consumption. Farmers are adopting millet farming as a sustainable alternative that offers stable returns while improving soil health. With rising demand in local and national markets, millets are emerging as an important component of the agricultural economy in Kurnool and Nandyal, contributing to food security, nutritional well-being, and sustainable farming practices.

Chilli exporters have urged the Andhra Pradesh government to take immediate steps to reduce the use of high-risk pesticides in chilli cultivation following China’s rejection of several consignments due to pesticide residue concerns. Exporters warned that excessive use of certain chemicals could affect the reputation of Andhra Pradesh chilli in international markets and lead to further restrictions from importing countries. They emphasized the need for stricter monitoring, farmer awareness programs, and the promotion of safer pest management practices to ensure compliance with global food safety standards. Industry representatives also called for increased testing facilities and guidance for farmers to help maintain export quality. As one of India’s major chilli-producing regions, Andhra Pradesh stands to benefit significantly from adopting sustainable cultivation methods that can protect both farmer incomes and export opportunities.

Nandyal District Collector Smt. Rajakumari Gania has called for a large-scale expansion of natural farming across the district, emphasizing the need to increase the area under chemical-free cultivation and encourage more farmers to adopt sustainable agricultural practices. During a review meeting with agriculture officials and farmer representatives, the Collector highlighted the benefits of natural farming, including reduced cultivation costs, improved soil fertility, better crop resilience, and higher farmer incomes. She urged officials to create greater awareness among farmers and ensure effective implementation of natural farming initiatives at the village level. The district administration aims to significantly expand natural farming coverage in Nandyal, contributing to environmental sustainability, food safety, and long-term agricultural prosperity for farming communities.