Sat Feb 22 23:15:00 UTC 2025: **Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Seeks Central Intervention to Aid Struggling Chilli Farmers**
Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh – February 23, 2025 – Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu held a high-level meeting on Saturday to address the plight of chilli farmers facing plummeting prices. The meeting follows discussions with Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, who assured support.
The central government has agreed to procure chillies under the Market Intervention Scheme (MIS) if prices fall below ₹11,781 per quintal. The state government is pushing for the MIS to cover up to 75% of the produce. Exports have stagnated due to increased production in competing countries like China, Malaysia, and Sri Lanka.
Farmers highlighted escalating cultivation costs, reaching ₹3.50 lakh per acre, coupled with high labor costs and shortages. Pest infestations further reduced crop quality and yield. Exporters reported a decline in exports, with only 250 of 410 major exporters currently active, exacerbated by restrictions on exports from Krishnapatnam port.
Chief Minister Naidu assured farmers that the government is considering the establishment of mango and chilli boards to provide further support. He previously urged Union Minister Chouhan to ensure the MIS reflects the true cost of cultivation and provides fair prices to farmers. The meeting included key agriculture officials and ministers.
First Piper 