Union Minister of State for Rural Development and Communications Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar on Thursday announced plans to introduce village-level crop planning committees, constituency-wise farm mechanisation demonstrations and drone pilot training in every mandal to promote sustainable agriculture and enhance farmers' income.

Chairing a review meeting on sustainable agriculture and the performance of allied sectors at the Collectorate, along with District Collector C.M. Sai Kanth Varma, the Union Minister said increasing farmers' income should be the ultimate goal of agricultural scientists and officials.

The meeting, attended by scientists from the Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University and Agriculture Department officials, focused on crop diversification, modern farming practices and convergence with horticulture and allied sectors.

Mr. Pemmasani directed officials to ensure effective implementation of Central and State government schemes and expand the use of technology to improve farm productivity and rural livelihoods.

He emphasised the need for coordinated efforts to implement sustainable agriculture practices that conserve natural resources and create resilient farming systems.

The Minister said committees comprising progressive farmers, scientists, agriculture and horticulture officials would be formed at the village level to prepare scientific crop plans. He stressed the development of pest-resistant seed varieties and encouraging farmers to take up a third crop wherever feasible.

Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University Vice-Chancellor P. V. Satyanarayana, Joint Collector Ashutosh Srivastava and District Agriculture Officer Padmavathi participated in the meeting.