YSRCP Announces Action Plan for Tobacco Farmers’ Issues
YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) President and former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy has announced his action plan to fight for the welfare of tobacco farmers, reiterating his commitment to raise their concerns. Speaking at a recent meeting with tobacco growers, Jagan alleged that middlemen have taken complete control of the agricultural market in Andhra Pradesh, depriving farmers of fair and remunerative prices for their produce.
He said that not only tobacco farmers but also aqua farmers are facing severe hardships due to trader syndicates, accusing private buyers of exploiting farmers by controlling prices.
Jagan Criticizes Government Over Tobacco Procurement
Jagan claimed that although the tobacco marketing season is nearing completion, only 16.5% of procurement has been completed. Recalling the performance of the previous YSRCP government during the 2023–24 tobacco season, he said farmers received a maximum price of ₹411 per kg and an average price of ₹289 per kg.
He questioned why the present government failed to deploy MARKFED to support procurement despite the sharp fall in prices. He also asked why no action had been taken against licensed buyers allegedly violating procurement norms.
Highlights YSRCP Government’s Farmer Support Measures
The former Chief Minister stated that the YSRCP government had established a ₹3,000 crore Price Stabilization Fund to protect farmers from price fluctuations. He also noted that nearly ₹7,800 crore was spent over five years on crop procurement to safeguard farmers’ interests.
According to Jagan, these measures ensured better price realization and reduced the financial burden on cultivators during his tenure.
Jagan to Visit Devarapalli Tobacco Procurement Centre
As part of the assurance given to farmers, YS Jagan Mohan Reddy will visit Devarapalli Tobacco Procurement Centre in West Godavari district on Wednesday, August 5, 2026.
During the visit, he will inspect the ongoing tobacco procurement process and review the ground-level situation.
Direct Interaction with Farmers
Jagan is scheduled to leave his residence in Tadepalli at 9:30 AM and reach Devarapalli by 10:30 AM.
After inspecting the procurement centre, he will hold a direct interaction with tobacco farmers. The discussions are expected to focus on:
- Tobacco cultivation and production
- Remunerative prices for the crop
- Procurement progress
- Challenges faced by farmers
- Government support and market conditions
Jagan is expected to gather feedback from farmers firsthand and discuss the issues affecting the tobacco sector in the state.
