Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu chairing a review meeting on crop loss due to untimely rains, in Amaravati on Friday.
| Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Friday directed the officials to submit a comprehensive report on crop damage caused by recent unseasonal weather within two days.
Addressing a review meeting with District Collectors and senior officials via video conference from his camp office, Mr. Naidu assessed the impact of heavy wind, untimely rains, and hailstorms that affected several parts of the State.
Officials informed the Chief Minister that crops in 42 mandals across 12 districts suffered damage. Maize crops in over 4,840 hectares, paddy over 1,534 hectares, and black gram over 310 hectares were impacted, incurring estimated losses of ₹40 crore.
Horticultural crops covering 1,301 hectares across 48 mandals in nine districts were affected. Crops such as banana, papaya, chilli, vegetables, mango, orange, and lemon bore the brunt of adverse weather conditions, with an estimated loss of ₹23 crore. Overall, the estimated total crop damage across categories has been pegged at ₹63 crore so far.
Expressing concern, the Chief Minister instructed the officials to expedite detailed assessments and ensure timely support to the affected farmers.
LPG supply
In a separate meeting later, the Chief Minister also reviewed the LPG supply situation. Noting that prolonged geopolitical tensions among Iran, Israel, and the United States could affect global LPG supply chains, he called for proactive measures to safeguard the availability of cooking gas in the State.
He directed the officials to ensure there is no disruption in the supply of LPG, with a priority to rural and tribal areas, educational institutions, temples, Anna Canteens, and anganwadi centres. He advised exploring alternative options such as induction stoves and piped natural gas (PNG).
Further, the Chief Minister instructed the authorities to remain in coordination with the Central government to prevent any shortages of essential commodities, including fertilizers, petrol, and diesel.
Published – March 20, 2026 08:22 pm IST
