Speed Up FCV Tobacco Procurement: Minister Atchannaidu
The minister said farmers would be sensitised to limit FCV tobacco production to around 81 million kilograms during the 2026-27 season in line with demand.
By : DC Web Desk
Update: 2026-07-17 10:53 GMT
Amaravati: Andhra Pradesh Agriculture Minister Kinjarapu Atchannaidu on Friday reviewed the progress of Flue-Cured Virginia (FCV) tobacco procurement through a teleconference and directed officials to speed up purchases to ensure remunerative prices for farmers.
State Energy Minister Gottipati Ravi Kumar, Social Welfare Minister D. Sri Bala Veeranjaneya Swamy, the Chairman and Executive Director of the Tobacco Board, and senior Agriculture Department officials participated in the meeting.
The minister said farmers would be sensitised to limit FCV tobacco production to around 81 million kilograms during the 2026-27 season in line with demand. He noted that procurement has gained momentum over the past four days, with around 8.5 lakh kilograms being purchased every day.
The Minister said the maximum price has reached Rs. 250 per kilogram and asked the Tobacco Board to persuade companies to offer still better prices.
He also directed the Board to hold discussions with companies to ensure remunerative prices even for lower-grade tobacco. He expressed confidence that faster procurement would improve returns to farmers.