CM Chandrababu Naidu Assures Support for Chilli Farmers, Discusses Polavaram Project with Union Ministers

New Delhi: Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has reassured chilli farmers that the government will step in to support them amid plummeting prices. Addressing the media in Delhi, he revealed that he had already discussed the matter with the central government and was committed to protecting farmers’ interests.

“This time, prices have fallen sharply due to declining global demand. Previously, the international market was robust, ensuring good returns for farmers, but that scenario has changed,” Naidu said.

The Chief Minister brought the issue to the attention of Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan via video conference, as the minister was on an official tour. He added that Chouhan would hold a review meeting with officials on Friday to assess the situation. Naidu also met Union Jal Shakti Minister C.R. Patil to discuss progress on the Polavaram project and seek central assistance for key water initiatives.

Seeking Central Assistance for Farmers

The state anticipates a chilli yield of 1.2 million metric tons this year, with 400,000 metric tons already arriving in the market. Farmers, who have cultivated chilli on approximately 500,000 acres, have been severely impacted by the price drop.

“We have requested the central government to intervene under the Market Intervention Scheme. Currently, only 25% support is provided, but price determination should also factor in cultivation costs. We have urged the Union Minister to address this issue,” Naidu stated, adding that a decision is expected after Friday’s review meeting.

He emphasized that his government was taking all possible steps to protect farmers. “Our primary goal is to ensure farmers do not suffer. On Saturday, we will meet traders and market committee representatives to better understand the situation. We have already sent three letters to the Centre, and our officials are in constant discussions with central authorities,” he said.

Criticism of Past Neglect

Naidu took a swipe at those who previously ignored farmers’ concerns but are now making political capital out of the crisis. “Crop prices fluctuate, and those who did nothing for farmers in the past are suddenly vocal. Before 2019, when chilli prices fell, we released Rs. 138 crore in financial aid—an unprecedented move in the country. Now, once again, it is the NDA government that will provide assistance,” he asserted.

Taking a dig at political rivals, Naidu criticized their alleged violations of election regulations. “The election code applies to all parties, yet some claim exemption just because they are not contesting. They ignored the Election Commission’s directives and engaged in illegal activities. Should the police protect criminal behavior?” he asked.

Feasibility Study on Banakacharla Water Diversion

During his meeting with Union Jal Shakti Minister C.R. Patil, Naidu discussed the Polavaram project’s progress and the need for central support in utilizing water resources more efficiently.

“Polavaram work is progressing well, and we aim to complete it by 2027. We are also exploring ways to divert surplus water to Banakacharla instead of letting it flow into the sea. A central team will visit Andhra Pradesh to study the feasibility of this proposal,” he said.

On the Jal Jeevan Mission, Naidu pointed out that the previous administration had squandered an opportunity to improve water access. “Despite the central government allocating Rs. 27,000 crore, the previous government barely utilized 1% of the scheme. While states like Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat have made great strides, Andhra Pradesh is lagging. The Centre has extended the project deadline to 2028, but based on previous allocations, our state will receive only Rs. 27,000 crore. To ensure tap water for all, an additional Rs. 54,000 crore is required. A Detailed Project Report is being prepared, and we will seek central funding,” he explained.

Impact of Poor Governance by the Previous Administration

Naidu did not mince words about the inefficiencies of the previous government. “The Jal Jeevan Mission is just one example of how misgovernance has cost the state dearly. In the past five years, 93 centrally sponsored schemes were rendered ineffective. After we assumed office, we allocated matching grants and ensured optimal utilization of funds. Effective use of central schemes benefits the state immensely, yet the previous government failed to leverage them,” he said.

Maximizing Water Resources for a Drought-Free Future

Naidu underscored the importance of optimizing water usage, especially given Andhra Pradesh’s geographic position at the tail end of river flows. “During my tenure as Chief Minister of undivided Andhra Pradesh, I completed several projects to ensure Telangana had adequate water. Now, our focus is on preventing wastage by redirecting water back into productive use. True politics is about serving the people, and the NDA in Andhra Pradesh is committed to that goal,” he affirmed. 

- By Teja.G