Andhra Pradesh launches Rayalaseema horticulture hub with ₹1 lakh crore biogas pledge

Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman jointly launched a comprehensive horticulture development programme for Rayalaseema, positioning the historically drought-prone region as a potential global fruit production centre. The initiative encompasses irrigation infrastructure, agricultural processing facilities, and export support mechanisms designed to transform the region's agricultural economy.

The state government pledged comprehensive support including improved irrigation systems and establishment of processing units to enable farmers to add value to their produce. Export promotion initiatives will facilitate market access for Rayalaseema-grown fruits, addressing long-standing challenges that have limited agricultural productivity in the semi-arid region.

Reliance Industries announced a significant ₹1 lakh crore investment in biogas plant development across Andhra Pradesh, aligning with the state's agricultural modernisation agenda. The conglomerate will also establish and operate the Indian School of Agriculture, contributing to skill development and technical expertise in the sector.

The multi-pronged approach aims to create sustainable livelihoods while addressing water scarcity through modern agricultural practices and infrastructure investment. Officials said the combined initiatives could catalyse economic growth in one of India's most agricultural-dependent regions.