Centre Expands Agri Support to Strengthen Rural Livelihoods, Says Sitharaman

Speaking at an event in Madanapalle, Andhra Pradesh, Sitharaman highlighted measures aimed at strengthening sectors such as dairy and fisheries. She said the deployment of veterinarians across districts and the introduction of mobile veterinary units are helping farmers and rural households access services that can support additional sources of income.

Sitharaman said the Centre and Andhra Pradesh government are working towards transforming the Rayalaseema region into what she described as "Ratnala Seema", or a land of prosperity. She linked the development push to the mandate received by the NDA government in the 2024 elections.

She also highlighted Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu's plan for a Rs 1 lakh crore Global Horticulture Hub covering 10 districts. The proposed initiative includes all eight districts of Rayalaseema along with two neighbouring districts and is aimed at building a world-class horticulture ecosystem in the state.

According to Sitharaman, the project is being taken forward with support from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and multilateral institutions including the World Bank and Asian Development Bank, along with other agencies.

The initiative is expected to introduce advanced agricultural technologies, improve the efficiency of water use and raise farm productivity in the region.

Sitharaman said efficient management of water resources remains a priority, particularly in areas facing water stress. She pointed to the use of modern agricultural practices and technology as key tools for improving productivity while making farming more sustainable.

She also cited several existing central government programmes aimed at strengthening farmers' resilience. These include the development of climate-resilient seed varieties designed to withstand extreme heat and dry conditions.

The Finance Minister highlighted the GOBARdhan initiative for converting rural waste into biogas, while noting that solar-powered irrigation pumps under PM-KUSUM can provide farmers with access to solar electricity for agricultural use.

She further pointed to the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana, which provides crop insurance to help farmers manage financial losses arising from crop damage and other unforeseen risks.

Sitharaman said the Centre's broader focus remains on strengthening agricultural resilience, improving farm incomes and expanding livelihood opportunities across rural India.