Minister assures support, fair price to tobacco farmers

Andhra Pradesh Minister and MLA address tobacco procurement challenges, vow support for farmers facing low bids and prices.

Andhra Pradesh Social Welfare Minister Dr. Dola Sree Bala Veeranjaneya Swamy and Santhanuthalapadu MLA B. N. Vijay Kumar inspected Tobacco Board in Pernamitta, Ongole on Tuesday. They interacted with farmers and farmers’ association leaders to understand the challenges they face. They also discussed about tobacco procurement with the board officials.

The minister said: “The tobacco farmers are facing problems due to the numerous bids. The tobacco procurement has concluded for the season in Karnataka and purchases should be expedited in this State. The low grade tobacco is being rejected and more steps shall be taken to ensure justice to the farmers in this matter.”

The minister announced plans for a meeting with buyers regarding the issue of no bids and low prices. He said: “Appropriate decision will be taken very soon. Our government has stood by the farmers in such situations in the past when the prices were not reasonable. Now also, we will provide all possible support to the farmers so that may not suffer any losses.”

On Monday, YSR Congress Party Ongole constituency coordinator Chunduri Ravi Babu visited the Tobacco Board auction centre no. 2 in Throvagunta village, Ongole. He observed farmers’ dissatisfaction with the auction prices and observed that many farmers’ were returning with their stock due to the low bids despite good quality.

Mr. Ravi Babu discussed the matter with the district authorities and asked them to ensure fair pricing in so that farmers face no losses.