Rayalaseema Farmers Facing Mounting Challenges as Input Costs Surge

KURNOOL: Farmers across Rayalaseema are facing difficulties in sowing their crops during the upcoming Kharif season due to a steep increase in the input costs and uncertain returns.

The most pressing concern of cultivators in Nandyal, Kurnool and Kadapa districts is the sharp rise in fertiliser prices. Prices of essential fertilisers have increased nearly 30 per cent compared to last year, significantly inflating the overall cost of cultivation.

Officials estimate that around 9 lakh hectares are expected to be brought under cultivation during the Kharif season in Rayalaseema, but rising costs may impact the final acreage.

Rising fuel prices have further compounded the burden on farmers. Diesel and petrol rates have reportedly gone up by about ₹15 per litre over the past 10 days, leading to a spike in tractor rentals and other mechanised farming expenses. As a result, the cost of cultivation has risen sharply, putting small and marginal farmers under severe financial stress.

“Every year, I cultivate paddy on 10 acres under borewell irrigation. But this time, I am hesitant,” said N. Sivarami Reddy, a farmer from Eturu village in Mydukur constituency of Kadapa district. “Fertiliser, labour and cultivation costs have increased drastically. Even though I have sufficient water, I am unsure whether I can afford to grow paddy this season,” he observed.

Farmers are expressing dissatisfaction over the ₹2,441 per quintal minimum support price (MSP) announced for paddy. Many feel that the current MSP does not reflect the rising input costs and fails to provide adequate returns. “The increase in MSP is minimal and does not match the escalation in expenses. Labour charges alone have gone up significantly compared to previous years,” Obula Keshanna, a farmer from Nandyal district, pointed out.

Agriculture department officials acknowledge concerns of the farmers. But they point out that MSP decisions are taken by the Centre and state governments. “We have a limited role in fixing MSP. However, we are closely monitoring crop losses and will submit detailed reports to the government for necessary compensation,” an agriculture officer from Kurnool district said.

Farmers estimate that the cost of cultivating paddy per acre has increased by over 30 per cent this season. “It is becoming increasingly difficult to sustain farming with such high input costs. Fuel prices are adding to our burden,” said P. Raghunatha Reddy, a farmer from Uyyalawada in Allagadda constituency.

Adding to their woes, unseasonal rains over the past week have caused widespread damage to horticulture crops across Rayalaseema. Thousands of acres of banana and papaya plantations have been affected. Mango crops have suffered heavy losses with fruits falling prematurely before harvest.

Fertiliser Price Comparison (in ₹ per bag)

Category –    Old Price (₹) – New Price (₹)

16-20-0-13 –  1,400             –    1,750

15-15-15 –      1,650             –    1,950

20-20-0-13 –  1,450             –     1,800

16-16-16 –      1,670             –     1,950

19-19-19 –      2,075             –      2,310

10-26-26 –      1,950             –      2,250