YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) president and former Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy on Wednesday (July 23, 2026) held a meeting with tobacco farmers from various districts, who shared their concerns over the prolonged procurement process, poor prices and mounting financial losses.

According to a release issued by the YSRCP, the farmers told Mr. Jagan Mohan Reddy that despite 94 days having passed since the commencement of tobacco auctions, procurement was far from complete, leaving thousands of growers in severe financial distress.

They said tobacco sales, which normally conclude by July, were continuing, creating uncertainty over the disposal of the remaining produce. Farmers from Eluru, West Godavari, East Godavari, Prakasam and other tobacco-growing districts took part in the interaction at the YSRCP central office at Tadepalli.

The farmers warned that if auctions begin in Mysuru before Andhra Pradesh completes its procurement, traders would shift their focus to Karnataka, leaving Andhra Pradesh’s unsold tobacco stocks without buyers.

They alleged that several auction platforms were witnessing 30% to 40% ‘no bids’ and rejections, forcing farmers to bring back rejected tobacco bales for subsequent auctions repeatedly. According to the farmers, each rejected bale costs them nearly ₹1,000 in additional transportation, handling and auction expenses.

Responding to the grievances, Mr. Jagan Mohan Reddy assured the farmers that the YSRCP would fight for fair prices, timely procurement and justice for the farmers. He is understood to have assured the farmers that the party would intensify its efforts to compel the government to address the issues.

Published - July 23, 2026 11:11 am IST