Rs 40,000 Crore Horticulture Hub Planned for Rayalaseema

KURNOOL: The Andhra Pradesh government is exploring the possibility of leveraging funds under the Centre’s Purvodaya scheme to set up a massive `40,000 crore horticulture hub in Rayalaseema.

This is part of the government’s efforts to accelerate development in backward regions.

Speaking at a budget outreach programme in Nandyal, finance minister Payyavula Keshav said the horticulture hub would transform the economic landscape of Rayalaseema. “Our priority is to utilise funds available under the Purvodaya scheme and channel them into sectors that can deliver long-term growth. Rayalaseema has immense potential in horticulture, and we are committed to unlocking it,” he said.

The Centre’s Purvodaya scheme is expected to usher in a new phase of development in backward regions. Although the initiative was first introduced in 2020, it was formally announced as a comprehensive development programme in the Union Budget 2024.

Launched by the Centre for the Development of Backward Regions, the project covers states such as Bihar, Odisha and Andhra Pradesh.

Officials said the government is keen on securing a significant share of these funds to boost infrastructure, agriculture and industrial growth, particularly in Rayalaseema and parts of north coastal Andhra.

According to officials, irrigation projects are expected to receive top priority under the scheme. Plans include construction of new canals and reservoirs, as well as modernisation of existing projects to improve water availability and enhance agricultural productivity.

“Horticulture is already the backbone of Rayalaseema’s rural economy. With better irrigation and infrastructure, farmers’ incomes can increase substantially,” a horticulture official said. “The region is often referred to as the fruit bowl of Andhra Pradesh. With the right investments, it can become a major export hub.”

The government is also focusing on strengthening logistics and connectivity to support the horticulture sector. Expansion of rural and national highways, improved rail links and better access to ports are part of the broader strategy to facilitate storage, processing and export of perishable produce.

“If proper storage and export infrastructure is created, Rayalaseema can contribute significantly to the state’s revenue,” the official added.

Experts believe that securing Purvodaya funds could also help attract industrial investments to the region. With industrial activity gradually picking up in Rayalaseema, the integration of agro-based industries with horticulture could further boost economic growth.

“Bringing in these funds will not only promote agriculture and industry but also help bridge regional disparities,” said an irrigation department official from Kurnool district.

Sources said public representatives and senior officials from the region are in discussions with the Centre to ensure that Andhra Pradesh receives adequate support under the scheme.