Andhra Pradesh Farmers Get Relief as Crop Prices Rise After Sankranti

Andhra Pradesh: After struggling for nearly two years with poor returns, farmers in Andhra Pradesh are finally seeing a positive change in market conditions. Post Sankranti, prices of key crops have moved upward, offering much needed financial relief to cultivators across the state.

For a long time, low prices forced farmers into losses, leaving many unable to recover their investment or clear crop related loans. Even until the Sankranti festival, the situation remained largely unchanged. However, in the days following the festival, demand picked up suddenly and market rates began to improve.

Chilli farmers are among the biggest beneficiaries of this shift. With demand increasing nationwide, chilli prices have climbed significantly. Ordinary chilli varieties are now selling at around eighteen thousand rupees per quintal. A special yellow chilli variety has touched record levels, trading close to forty nine thousand rupees per quintal. This variety is widely used in restaurants and food processing units, especially for sauces, which has driven strong demand.

Although the special yellow chilli yields slightly lower output per acre compared to regular varieties, the higher market price is helping farmers earn better overall returns. Many growers say this season has finally turned profitable after years of disappointment.

Groundnut farmers are also witnessing encouraging trends. Groundnut prices in Andhra Pradesh have reached around nine thousand six hundred fifty rupees per quintal, the highest level seen so far. Rising global demand for oilseeds is being cited as the key reason behind the price surge.

Rayalaseema districts, where groundnut cultivation is widespread, had faced severe losses in recent years due to poor pricing. The current rise has brought renewed hope to these farmers, who now see a chance to stabilise their income after prolonged financial stress.