Andhra minister assures tobacco farmers of full procurement, minimum ₹200/kg
Social Welfare Minister Dola Sree Bala Veeranjaneya Swamy conducted a surprise inspection of the tobacco auction centre at Tanguturu in Prakasam district on Wednesday. He examined tobacco bales and spoke with officials and farmers to assess whether they were receiving remunerative prices commensurate with produce quality.
The Minister assured farmers that their entire crop would be procured by buyers. He urged traders to ensure the purchase price does not fall below ₹200 per kilogram, stating that the coalition government is committed to farmer welfare. He noted that Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu had already reviewed issues faced by tobacco farmers with ministers and senior officials.
Mr. Swamy said special measures are being taken to prevent 'no-bid' situations and ensure transparency in the bidding process. He directed Agriculture and Revenue department officials to continuously monitor the auction process and ensure timely payments to farmers, with no delays. He emphasised that steps are being taken to prevent exploitation by middlemen and to secure the best prices for quality tobacco grades in line with international market standards.
