What Incentives Did Andhra Pradesh CM Announce for Farmers to Reduce Urea Usage?
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Synopsis
In a strategic push to reduce urea usage among farmers, Andhra Pradesh's Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has unveiled a Rs 800 per bag incentive. This initiative is part of a broader effort to mitigate health risks associated with chemical fertilizers and promote sustainable farming practices in the state.
Key Takeaways
- Incentive of Rs 800 for reduced urea usage.
- Focus on health education for farmers.
- Support for aqua farmers with power subsidies.
- Need for traceability certification in aqua products.
- Government purchases to stabilize farmers' income.
Amaravati, Sep 15 (NationPress) In an initiative aimed at promoting the reduced use of urea, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu declared an incentive of Rs 800 per bag for farmers who minimize their reliance on urea.
He instructed officials to implement the subsidy through the PM Pranam scheme, facilitating direct financial support to farmers to motivate them towards lesser urea consumption.
During a conference with Collectors at the Secretariat, the Chief Minister reassured that there is no shortage of urea supply and emphasized that advance planning for urea distribution should have been in place.
CM Naidu highlighted a recent incident where China rejected a chilli shipment from Andhra Pradesh due to concerns over chemical fertilizer usage.
He cautioned that the overuse of chemicals, pesticides, and urea could lead to serious health issues like cancer. Referencing Punjab, where two trains transport cancer patients to Delhi, he noted that Andhra Pradesh ranks fifth in cancer cases attributed to urea overuse, underscoring the urgency of educating farmers on these health risks.
Addressing the rising cancer cases in Bhalabadrapuram of East Godavari district linked to excessive fertilizer use, the Chief Minister ordered an immediate investigation into the causes of these cancer occurrences.
He urged farmers to adjust their crop cultivation based on market demand, commending the Rayalaseema region for excelling in horticulture and noting that Anantapur's per capita income surpasses that of the Konaseema region.
The state government has purchased 20 million kgs of HD Burley tobacco and mangoes at Rs 4 per kg, disbursing Rs 200 crore to support farmers. Currently, the government is buying onions at Rs 1,200 per quintal to safeguard the farmers' interests.
CM Naidu assured that the state government is committed to supporting aqua farmers, announcing a plan to provide power at Rs 1.50 per unit to aquaculture operations spanning 5 lakh acres.
He directed officials to ensure registration of aqua farmers within a month to qualify for power subsidies and emphasized the need for traceability certification for aqua products. Additionally, he called for measures to prevent pollution in aqua tanks from poultry waste disposal.
Point of View
The initiative by Andhra Pradesh's government is a vital step towards promoting sustainable agricultural practices. By offering financial incentives to farmers, the state is addressing both environmental concerns and public health issues, potentially setting a precedent for other regions to follow.
NationPress
15/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the incentive amount announced by the Chief Minister?
The Chief Minister announced an incentive of Rs 800 per bag for farmers who minimize urea usage.
What is the PM Pranam scheme?
The PM Pranam scheme is designed to provide subsidies to farmers directly, encouraging the reduction of urea consumption.
What health issues are linked to excessive urea usage?
Excessive urea usage is linked to an increase in cancer cases, as emphasized by the Chief Minister.
How is the government supporting aqua farmers?
The government plans to provide power at Rs 1.50 per unit to aqua farmers spread across 5 lakh acres.
What measures are being taken to prevent pollution in aquaculture?
Officials have been instructed to prevent pollution of aqua tanks caused by the dumping of poultry waste.
