Naidu for popularising organic coffee grown in Araku in India, abroad

Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has called for making organic coffee grown in Araku Valley, known for its unique aroma and flavour, a global brand and announced that the coffee plantation will be extended to another one lakh acres..

"I promoted Araku coffee as a brand and even set up a stall in Paris. In 11 mandals of the Paderu agency, coffee is cultivated over 2.58 lakh acres, supporting the livelihoods of 2.46 lakh people. We are working to expand coffee plantations by another one lakh acres. In addition, cherries are cultivated on 1.80 lakh acres, producing 90,000 metric tonnes annually. Our tribal farmers also cultivate mango, sapota, cashew, jackfruit, jamun, lemon, custard apple, and even saffron. Once, the agency was infamous for ganja cultivation, but under the NDA government, ganja is no longer a problem, not only in agency areas but anywhere in the state,” he stated at the International Adivasi Day celebrations at Vanjangi near here.

He stated that the overall development of the State is possible only when tribal communities progress in all aspects. If greater awareness is brought among tribals, development will be unstoppable. Recalling that NTR had initiated development in tribal areas, he said he is continuing those efforts.

Speaking at International Adivasi Day celebrations at Vanjangi near here, he noted that in the past, the government had issued GO No. 3 to ensure jobs for local tribals in agency areas, but it was later revoked due to the negligence of previous administrations. In place of the rescinded GO, the government will implement alternative measures to safeguard tribal interests, he said.

Later Naidu offered prayers at the Forest Goddess Modakondamma Temple, inspected nearby coffee plantations, witnessed traditional tribal festivities, and visited stalls displaying tribal products. He also reviewed tourism development projects with officials.He said "being here among the tribal people of Paderu fills me with joy. My aim is to work tirelessly to improve living standards for the poor. I had planned to visit Paderu earlier, but could not due to weather conditions," he stated.

The Chief Minister said the agency area is a marvel of nature. "On the way here, I was awestruck by the green hills and serene landscapes. If I were to be reborn, I would wish to be born here. Your harvest festivals, from Vithana Panduga to Sankranti, are celebrated with great sanctity. Unfortunately, past governments neglected this region, causing many hardships. NTR has laid the foundation for tribal development, and I am carrying that forward,” the Chief Minister said.