Centre Reviews FCV Tobacco Market in Andhra Pradesh, Assures Measures to Protect Farmers

The Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry has said it is closely monitoring the market situation for Flue-Cured Virginia (FCV) tobacco in Andhra Pradesh and is working with the state government, the Tobacco Board, and other stakeholders to safeguard farmers' interests and maintain market stability.

As part of the review, a high-level delegation led by Nitin Kumar Yadav, Additional Secretary, Department of Commerce, visited Andhra Pradesh on July 25 to assess the prevailing market conditions. The team participated in a high-level meeting chaired by Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, which was also attended by the Chairman and Executive Director of the Tobacco Board.

During the meeting, officials discussed the current challenges facing the FCV tobacco sector, measures to protect growers' interests, and long-term strategies aimed at ensuring the sustainability and stability of the industry.

The central delegation also visited the Tobacco Board's auction platform at Vellampalli, where it observed the ongoing auction process and interacted directly with farmers. Officials sought feedback on prevailing market conditions, price trends, and the concerns being faced by growers.

The delegation appreciated the transparent and well-organised auction system being implemented by the Tobacco Board, noting that the auction mechanism was being conducted in a fair and systematic manner.

Speaking during the visit, Nitin Kumar Yadav assured farmers that the Central Government is continuously monitoring developments in the FCV tobacco market. He said the Centre is coordinating closely with the Andhra Pradesh Government and the Tobacco Board to ensure that farmers' interests remain protected and that any emerging issues are addressed promptly.

The ministry stated that Andhra Pradesh is one of India's largest FCV tobacco-producing states, making it crucial to maintain a stable and efficient marketing system. It added that the ongoing review is part of the Centre's broader efforts to support tobacco growers while ensuring the long-term sustainability of the sector.