Anam Assures Remunerative Prices To Tobacco Farmers

Farmers informed the minister that despite producing high-quality tobacco this season, prices have dropped steeply due to sluggish procurement and declining auction prices. This has left them in severe financial distress.

Responding to their concerns, Anam said the government will treat the issue with utmost priority and take all necessary steps to secure remunerative prices and protect the farmers’ interests.

During the meeting, the minister spoke over phone with Agriculture minister Kinjarapu Atchannaidu, Energy minister Gottipati Ravi Kumar and district collector Himanshu Shukla in the presence of farmers, seeking immediate intervention. Anam went on to assure farmers that he will take up the matter with Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu to ensure justice for farmers.

Nearly 4,000 farmers cultivate tobacco on about 45,000 acres in Nellore district. While tobacco fetched between ₹280 and ₹360 per kg last year, prices at D.C. Palli and Kaligiri auction centres have reportedly fallen to around ₹190 per kg this season.

The Endowments minister said he had discussed the issue with district officials and directed them to address concerns such as inadequate warehouse facilities. He disclosed that the Chief Minister has written to the central Commerce and Finance ministries seeking support for tobacco growers.

Reiterating the coalition government's commitment to tobacco farmers, Anam assured farmers that it would firmly stand by them until a fair resolution is achieved.

The minister said to find a long-term solution, the government will soon convene a special meeting involving farmer representatives, Tobacco Board officials, senior agriculture department officers and public representatives.