How Will Andhra Pradesh Transform 10 Districts into Horticulture Clusters?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Amaravati, Jan 27 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, N. Chandrababu Naidu, on Tuesday instructed officials to formulate a comprehensive action plan aimed at transforming the Rayalaseema region alongside Prakasam and Markapuram districts into significant horticultural centers.
During a review meeting with key ministers and senior officials, the Chief Minister discussed integrated development initiatives for establishing 10 districts as pivotal hubs in the horticulture sector.
Recognizing the current prominence of the Rayalaseema region in national horticulture production, he emphasized that this area, along with Prakasam and Markapuram, should evolve into the world's largest horticultural cluster.
He urged the officials to align horticulture production with global market demands, revealing plans to generate 500 million metric tonnes of horticultural output.
Naidu also announced that DP World from Dubai has expressed interest in establishing a horticulture cluster within Andhra Pradesh.
Emphasizing the importance of attracting private investments in horticulture, he mentioned utilizing funds from the Purvodaya initiative by the Government of India.
The Chief Minister directed the formulation of logistics strategies that encompass food processing units, port connections, warehouses, cold chains, and other essential infrastructure.
He insisted on expedited completion of irrigation projects in Rayalaseema, Prakasam, and Markapuram, mandating that these projects be prioritized.
Naidu highlighted the necessity to finalize the Veligonda Project within this year and requested officials to devise plans for reconstructing the Annamayya Project.
He stressed the urgency of ensuring the flow of Krishna waters to Kadapa through the Galuru–Nagari Project.
Additionally, Naidu instructed that development efforts should extend beyond Rayalaseema to include northern districts of Andhra Pradesh. Once the Polavaram Left Canal works are completed, the flow of Godavari waters to northern Andhra will enable the Polavaram–Vamsadhara river interlinking project.
He directed officials to prioritize project planning in North Andhra.