Andhra Pradesh is shaking up how agricultural inputs are distributed with launch of APAIMS 2.0 mobile app. It's designed to streamline sale of Urea and DAP fertilisers. This digital platform,live since start of kharif season,aims to boost transparency in fertiliser distribution, ensuring subsidised nutrients reach actual farmers.
By June 8,most districts had switched fertiliser sales to APAIMS. State's Agriculture Department says system pulls together data on crop cultivation,fertiliser needs,dealer networks, and Rythu Seva Kendras into one digital setup. This move aims to stop subsidised fertiliser diversion and fix supply chain leaks while promoting smart nutrient management on farms .
Calling it a big step toward data-driven agricultural governance,Director of Agriculture Manazir Jeelani Samoon noted that farmers on e-Panta crop booking system can now buy fertilisers from their chosen dealers. Each sale is logged digitally, boosting accountability and helping stock tracking and policy planning .
Rollout timing is crucial, matching rising fertiliser demand as farmers gear up for big monsoon planting. Recent data shows 10,656 bags of Urea and DAP have gone to 1,532 registered farmers across 26 districts. Nandyal district topped fertiliser use with 4,835 bags for 384 farmers . Demand nearly split between 2,549 bags of Urea and 2,286 bags of DAP. Experts link high use to widespread paddy, maize,cotton, and various horticultural crops.
But APAIMS 2.0 isn't without critics . Andhra Pradesh Tenant Farmers Association wants it scrapped . State Secretary P. Jamalayya argues linking fertiliser access to Web Land records and landowners’ Aadhaar details could shut out many tenant farmers. He points out many lack formal leases and struggle to get landowners' OK for Aadhaar checks.
To see how new system's working,Dr. Samoon made surprise visits to fertiliser outlets in Guntur district,including Namburu and Venigandla villages . Officials explained platform to farmers,who worried about having enough fertiliser stocks in remote areas that might face transport issues during monsoon.
As Andhra Pradesh navigates this key farming phase,APAIMS 2.0's success will depend on boosting transparency and efficiency while ensuring fair fertiliser access for all farmers . Next few months will be a test for this digital push…
