Union Minister calls for village-level crop planning to increase farmers’ income in AP

Minister of State for Rural Development Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar and District Collector CM Sai Kanth Varma at a review meeting in Guntur on Thursday. | Photo Credit: T. VIJAY KUMAR

Minister of State for Rural Development and Communications Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar on Thursday announced plans to introduce village-level crop planning committees, constituency-wise farm mechanization demonstrations and drone pilot training in each mandal to promote sustainable agriculture and increase farmers’ income.

The Union Minister, who chaired a review meeting on sustainable agriculture and performance of allied sectors at the Collectorate, along with District Collector CM Sai Kanth Varma, said that the highest objective of agricultural scientists and officials should be to increase farmers’ income.

The meeting, attended by scientists from Acharya NG Ranga Agricultural University and agriculture department officials, focused on crop diversification, modern farming practices and convergence with horticulture and allied sectors.

Mr. Pemmasani directed officials to ensure effective implementation of central and state government programs and expand the use of technology to improve farm productivity and rural livelihoods.

He emphasized the need for coordinated efforts to introduce sustainable agricultural practices that conserve natural resources and create resilient agricultural systems.

The minister said that committees comprising progressive farmers, scientists, agriculture and horticulture officials would be formed at the village level to prepare scientific crop plans. He emphasized the development of pest-resistant seed varieties and encouraged farmers to grow a third crop whenever possible.

Acharya NG Ranga Agricultural University Vice-Chancellor PV Satyanarayana, Joint Collector Ashutosh Srivastava and District Agriculture Officer Padmavathi attended the meeting.

Published – 18 Jun 2026 23:43 IST