Andhra Pradesh's Energy Minister, Gottipati Ravi Kumar,checked out tobacco auction platform in Vellampalli village June 29,2026 . He spoke with officials about auction operations and price trends,stressing fair pay for tobacco farmers .
At media briefing, Kumar underscored coalition government's focus on farmer welfare. Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has called a meeting with tobacco companies to tackle low auction prices. Goal is to get farmers fair money for their crops.
To protect farmers,Kumar urged buyers to keep auction prices above ₹200 per kilogram . He noted only 9 to 10 out of 29 registered companies are buying. He told officials to ensure all companies participate and watch auction centers closely . Avoid situations where farmers get low or no bids.
Minister also tackled pricing differences with Karnataka,pushing procurement agencies to put farmers first. He hinted state might step in directly if buyers don't offer better prices. Kumar repeated government's promise to secure fair,profitable prices for farmers' tobacco .
Besides tobacco, Kumar opened new 33/11 kV substation in Housing Board Colony,Ongole,costing ₹3.80 crore. He said coalition government is boosting state's power network to meet growing demand,improve supply quality.
Minister announced 25 substations approved for erstwhile Prakasam district, with many running,others almost done. Mentioned ongoing work on 220 kV APTRANSCO substation at Yerragondapalem,estimated ₹70 crore cost . How this all plays out…
