Tobacco Growers in Andhra Pradesh Grapple with Financial Struggles
Tobacco growers in Andhra Pradesh are facing tougher financial times as auction prices keep falling . A political figure has raised alarm over these ongoing farmer struggles.
At a recent media conference,the leader mentioned that state's chief executive had meetings with tobacco regulators and buyers . They reportedly ordered no auctions without bids and prices to stay above ₹200/kg . But prices fell even more next day,leaving more tobacco bales unsold, rejected . Farmers then took to streets,voicing anger at Ongole auction sites.
The situation is dire in Southern Black Soil regions. Many farmers have seen big losses last two rabi seasons . Rising costs for labor,fertilizers, other farming essentials worsen it. The political figure noted more tobacco getting rejected at auctions,adding to financial strain as farmers face extra transport costs for these rejects . Much of this year's crop still unsold because of slow buying.
There's a call for swift action to stabilize prices. Farmers' livelihoods depend on it…
