Use Every Available Water Source to Save Crops - Atchannaidu

Andhra Pradesh Agriculture Minister Atchannaidu has directed officials to take urgent measures on a war footing to tackle the impact of El Niño. He called for steps to protect every crop affected by moisture deficiency and instructed officials to make effective use of all available water resources. He also asked field-level officials to remain alert and extend necessary support to farmers. Crop conditions are being continuously monitored across 284 mandals in the state, he said.

The minister said El Niño was affecting crops across 2.44 lakh hectares in Andhra Pradesh and called for a special focus on crop protection measures. He directed officials to clear pending crop-health data entries at the earliest and promote alternative crops that require less water on a large scale. He also stressed the need for close coordination between the Agriculture and Water Resources departments.