Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has directed the Agriculture department to ensure the speedy supply of seeds to farmers in view of the start of irrigation water supply from May 15. He instructed officials to allocate ₹200 crore for timely seed distribution for the upcoming cropping season.

Mr. Naidu reviewed the procurement of major crops, including paddy, banana, tobacco and oil palm, at the Secretariat on Wednesday (May 6, 2026). He said farmers should receive remunerative prices in line with market demand. He said traceability and certification were important to enhance crop value and farmer income.

He encouraged natural farming practices, and directed officials to ensure the supply of compost for organic cultivation.

The officials informed Mr. Naidu that maize production was expected to reach 42.06 lakh metric tonnes this year. Mr. Naidu suggested exploring ethanol production from maize and other crops, and asked officials to facilitate the procurement of mangoes by processing units.

He also directed officials to ensure the early supply of fish seed ahead of the season.

The officials said 7.5 lakh metric tonnes of urea would be available for the next cropping season. Mr. Naidu asked them to take up with the Centre incentives under the PMDS scheme to promote reduced urea usage.

Mr. Naidu said an Indian School of Agriculture would be set up at Madanapalle, aimed at strengthening agricultural education and innovation in the State.

Agriculture Minister K. Atchannaidu and other officials attended the meeting.