Andhra Pradesh Agriculture Minister Kinjarapu Atchhanaidu held an emergency review on the rising Black Thrips problem affecting chilli crops. He spoke with the Horticulture Department Director and gathered details about the severe damage reported from multiple districts. Officials explained that this pest has been troubling farmers since 2021 and continues to impact crop output. The minister directed officials to take immediate field-level action to prevent further losses.
Atchhanaidu asked the department to submit a detailed status report on the crop condition without delay. He instructed officials to send expert scientists to the affected areas to assess the intensity of the pest attack. The minister stressed the need for special action plans under the Horticulture Department to control Black Thrips quickly. He also told teams to offer farmers clear scientific guidance on safe and effective pesticide use.
The minister highlighted the importance of awareness programs for farmers and asked officials to conduct village-level training through Rythu Seva Kendras. He instructed the Horticulture Department staff and YSR Horticulture University scientists to visit fields and offer direct advice. These steps aim to support chilli farmers and reduce crop losses.
Horticulture Director Dr. K. Srinivasulu briefed the minister that awareness and control programs are already being implemented across the state. The government aims to protect farmers through coordinated action and timely guidance.
