AMARAVATI, 14 April 2025: In a bid to transform its agricultural landscape and boost farmer incomes, the Andhra Pradesh government has announced a major initiative to promote 11 key crops as “Growth Engines” of the rural economy. The move is part of the state’s long-term Swarna Andhra @2047 vision, which aims to grow Andhra’s economy to USD 2.4 trillion by 2047.
The plan was outlined in the Agriculture Budget presented in the State Assembly by Agriculture Minister K. Atchannaidu. Agriculture and agri-tech have been identified as one of ten foundational pillars to drive a targeted 15% annual growth rate. The initiative focuses on increasing productivity, improving yields, and scaling up natural farming methods.
The selected crops span across diverse categories:
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Cereals: Maize, jowar, paddy, millets
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Pulses: Black gram, red gram, Bengal gram
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Oilseeds: Groundnut, sesame
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Fibre crop: Cotton
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Commercial crop: Tobacco
These crops have been identified for their strategic value in food production, livestock feed, exports, and even renewable energy. Notably, maize has been spotlighted for its emerging role in ethanol production, aligning with India’s national target of 20% ethanol blending in automotive fuel.
While sugarcane-derived molasses has long been the primary feedstock for ethanol, maize offers a more sustainable and water-efficient alternative. "Maize cultivation for ethanol is not only cost-effective but also significantly reduces water usage compared to paddy," said officials from the Agriculture Department. The push for maize-based ethanol is expected to stabilize market prices, assure consistent demand, and provide farmers with a reliable income stream.
Paddy, traditionally dominant in Andhra Pradesh, remains a staple with varieties like Kurnool Sona Masoori, RNR, and Samba Masoori favoured for local consumption. However, the government is now promoting the ‘1010’ paddy variety, a 6 mm grain with high export potential, particularly in African markets. Though it lacks strong local demand, officials see it as a gateway for farmers to tap into global export opportunities.
The state’s approach reflects a broader shift towards diversified, climate-resilient, and globally competitive agriculture, as it lays the foundation for an ambitious economic transformation.
Image credit: agrifarming.in
