Horticulture Hub Aims to Double Farmers’ Income - Nara Lokesh

Andhra Pradesh Minister Nara Lokesh said the Global Horticulture Hub being established in Madanapalle is aimed at doubling farmers’ incomes and transforming Rayalaseema into a major horticulture centre. Speaking at the foundation-stone ceremony for the Global Horticulture Hub and Indian School of Agriculture in Annamayya district, Lokesh said the project would promote advanced cultivation methods, modern technology and new varieties of fruits suited to global markets. He said the initiative is expected to create significant employment and livelihood opportunities in the region.

Lokesh also said Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu’s focus on irrigation and agricultural development had helped bring greater water availability to the drought-prone region. Referring to Naidu as a “Water Man”, Lokesh made the remark while criticising the YSR Congress Party over its reaction to such descriptions. He said the horticulture hub would connect farmers with domestic and international markets and strengthen the agricultural value chain from production to processing and exports.