In an exciting development for India's agricultural sector, Andhra Pradesh is leading the way toward a brighter, more prosperous future for farmers through smart, technology-driven farming initiatives. Agriculture Minister K. Atchannaidu announced the state's inspiring vision to transform every single drop of water into tangible income for farming communities across the region.

Speaking at the inauguration of a new automation facility at the Integrated Water Resources Management and Farmer Training Centre in Vijayawada, Minister Atchannaidu shared the government's heartening commitment to farmer welfare and sustainable agriculture. The innovative facility, established under the State Horticulture Department, represents a major milestone in the state's agricultural transformation journey.

The forward-thinking initiative addresses modern farming challenges with optimism and practical solutions. Recognizing the realities of changing climate patterns, evolving water resources, and rising costs, Andhra Pradesh is empowering farmers with tools that make agriculture more profitable and sustainable than ever before.

Already recognized as a national leader in micro-irrigation, Andhra Pradesh is taking its success story to the next level with an inspiring new focus. The state has evolved its approach from the slogan "Per Drop More Crop" to the even more farmer-centric "Per Drop More Returns," putting financial wellbeing at the heart of agricultural policy.

The game-changing technology brings precision and confidence to farming decisions. Through sophisticated sensors, data analytics, and automation systems, farmers can now apply irrigation and fertilizers with scientific accuracy rather than relying on traditional guesswork. This technological leap forward promises remarkable benefits: water savings of twenty to thirty percent, significantly reduced labor costs, and notably improved crop yields and quality.

The automation-based micro-irrigation system offers particular advantages for horticulture crops, plantations, greenhouses, shade net cultivation, and other high-value agricultural products. Best of all, the government is making this technology accessible to farmers across the state through the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana, with generous financial support of up to forty thousand rupees per hectare.

In a heartwarming show of inclusive development, small and marginal farmers, along with Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe farmers, receive an impressive fifty-five percent subsidy on the technology. Other farmers can access a substantial forty-five percent subsidy. Farmers with existing drip irrigation systems can also upgrade by integrating automation technology, making the transition even more accessible.

Minister Atchannaidu emphasized the program's commitment to transparency and quality, ensuring that implementation occurs only through officially empanelled companies with fixed pricing, mandatory inspections, and proper APMIP branding. This attention to detail protects farmers and ensures they receive genuine value for their investment.

The comprehensive initiative promises to reduce ongoing costs for water, power, and fertilizers while simultaneously boosting productivity and crop quality. With these ambitious yet achievable goals, Andhra Pradesh is positioning itself as an inspiring model for agricultural innovation that other states and nations can learn from.

Agriculture Special Chief Secretary Budithi Rajasekhar, Horticulture Director K. Srinivasulu, and other officials joined the celebration of this promising new chapter in Andhra Pradesh's agricultural story, united in their commitment to creating prosperity and sustainability for farming communities.