Chandrababu Naidu Vows Support for Chilli Growers

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Chandrababu Naidu promises assistance to chilli farmers.
- Concerns raised about chilli price drops.
- Union Minister to review procurement issues.
- Target of 12 lakh metric tonnes for chilli procurement.
- Plans to utilize coastal water resources.
Amaravati, Feb 20 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, N. Chandrababu Naidu, extended his support to chilli farmers on Thursday, encouraging them to remain calm amidst the declining prices.
The Chief Minister mentioned that he had discussions with the Centre regarding the significant decrease in chilli prices. He explained, “Previously, high rates in the global market allowed farmers to obtain better prices, but now the prices have plummeted due to reduced demand globally,” Chandrababu Naidu informed reporters in New Delhi.
The national president of the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) stated that he raised this issue with Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan through a video conference during Chouhan’s tour.
He disclosed that the Union Minister is set to review the situation with officials on Friday.
The Chief Minister noted that this year, a total of 12 lakh metric tonnes of chillies are to be procured, with four lakh metric tonnes already procured. He conveyed that all ongoing challenges have been communicated to the Centre, and the Union Minister assured that he will provide clarity following a meeting with officials on Friday.
Chandrababu Naidu participated in the swearing-in ceremony of the Chief Minister of Delhi, after which he met with Water Resources Minister C.R. Patil.
During their discussion, the Chief Minister addressed the Jal Jeevan Mission and Polavaram matters, mentioning the State Government's goal of completing the Polavaram project by 2027. “We also requested the Centre's assistance to redirect water from Polavaram to Banakacherla, and Central representatives will visit the State to evaluate the situation,” he added.
He emphasized that the state government is currently strategizing to utilize the water flowing into the sea. He asserted that the TDP-led NDA government is dedicated to this cause.