AP Govt to Halt Onion Procurement from Sept 22, Announces Farmer Compensation

Quick Summary

• Compensation for Farmers: Andhra Pradesh government announces ₹50,000 per hectare compensation for onion farmers whose crops were damaged. This amount will be credited directly to the farmers’ bank accounts.
• Purchase policy Ends: The remunerative price of ₹1,200 per quintal set by the government for onions will no longer apply after Monday; farmers must now sell produce to local traders or other markets.
• Increased Relief: Compensation has been doubled from ₹25,000 to ₹50,000 per hectare under Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu’s directive.
• Sector Impact: Onion farming in Kurnool covers 45,278 acres with 24,218 farmers expected to benefit; similar relief initiatives have been implemented previously for Totapuri mangoes (₹260 crore), tobacco and cocoa farming.
• Political Statements: Roads and Buildings Minister B.C. Janardhan Reddy emphasized pro-farmer policies but criticized opposition YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) for neglecting onion farmers during their tenure.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The Andhra Pradesh government’s move to provide direct compensation of ₹50,000 per hectare considerably increases support compared to earlier schemes. This shift signals recognition of farmer distress and prioritization amid volatile market conditions and crop losses due to unforeseen events such as heavy rains.

Though, discontinuing the government’s purchase at a fixed price may leave some onion growers vulnerable in negotiating rates with traders or navigating market fluctuations without state intervention as a stabilizer. Efforts towards doubling financial aid reflect political will to address farmer grievances urgently but highlight potential trade-offs between immediate assistance versus infrastructural measures ensuring long-term stability.

The criticism of opposition parties further raises questions about whether partisan politics could overshadow collaborative efforts needed for lasting agricultural reforms-critical given the dependence on weather-sensitive crops like onions not just in Kurnool but beyond.

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