Andhra urges release of Rs. 645 crore pending micro irrigation funds

Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Kinjarapu Atchannaidu discussed farm development and Centre–State coordination in Tirumala

Andhra Pradesh sought release of ₹645 crore pending under the Micro Irrigation scheme

The State requested an additional ₹400 crore under the RKVY–Per Drop More Crop programme

The Union Minister assured support and said the Centre would examine the fund release request

Metro India News | AMARAVATI

Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Shivraj Singh Chouhan met Andhra Pradesh Agriculture Minister Kinjarapu Atchannaidu during his visit to Tirumala on Sunday, with the two leaders holding detailed discussions on agricultural development and farmer welfare initiatives in the state.

The meeting focused on strengthening cooperation between the Centre and the State in implementing agriculture-related schemes, enhancing farmer incomes, and promoting sustainable farming practices. Minister Atchannaidu briefed the Union Minister on the progress of various welfare programmes being implemented in Andhra Pradesh and expressed gratitude for the Centre’s continued support through funding assistance and policy initiatives aimed at strengthening the agricultural sector.

During the discussions, Atchannaidu highlighted the importance of modern technologies, efficient resource management, and cost reduction measures in farming, noting that Central government schemes were playing a significant role in improving productivity and supporting farmers across the state. Both leaders emphasised the need for closer coordination between the State and the Centre to further accelerate agricultural growth and ensure long-term sustainability.

A key issue raised by the State Minister was the pending release of Central funds under the Micro Irrigation scheme. Atchannaidu informed the Union Minister that Andhra Pradesh is yet to receive Rs. 695 crore as the Centre’s share for projects already implemented. While Rs. 50 crore was released earlier this month, he said the remaining Rs. 645 crore was still pending and urged the Centre to expedite its release in the interest of farmers.

He also requested the release of an additional Rs. 400 crore during the current financial year under the RKVY–Per Drop More Crop (PDMC) programme to expand micro irrigation coverage across the state. Expanding micro irrigation, he noted, would enable efficient utilisation of water resources, reduce cultivation costs, and significantly enhance farmers’ incomes.

Responding positively, Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan assured that the Centre would examine the request and take steps for the early release of funds, reaffirming continued support to Andhra Pradesh’s agricultural initiatives.