Tobacco Farmers in Prakasam District Face Low Prices and Rejections

Tobacco cultivation remains a major source of income for many families in Prakasam district, a region known for its fertile black soil. Over the past year, growers have reported a sharp fall in the prices they receive for their crop, with some buyers refusing to purchase produce that meets the required quality standards. The repeated rejections have left farmers scrambling to find alternative markets, often at lower rates. In response, several groups of ryots have organized local meetings and are demanding a price support mechanism from the state government. Officials have acknowledged the issue and said they are exploring options to streamline the supply chain and ensure fair payment to the farmers.