Babu’s Big Proposal for Centre!

CBN has made a strong pitch to the Union Government to bring major national-level agriculture and allied colleges to Amaravati. During his recent meeting with Centre’s Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Babu seems to have placed multiple requests aimed at improving the state’s farming sector and creating long-term opportunities for farmers, students and agri-entrepreneurs.

The main highlight of the proposal is a National Agriculture University, for which a Detailed Project Report (DPR) with an estimated cost of around ₹2,500 crore has already been submitted. This university is seen as a world-class institution focusing on advanced agricultural research, climate-resilient farming, agri-technology and farmer-oriented innovation. Once established, it is expected to attract students and researchers from across the country and abroad.

In addition, the state has sought regional offices of ICAR (Indian Council of Agricultural Research) and NIFTEM (National Institute of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship and Management). These offices would help Andhra Pradesh farmers and food processing units gain better access to research support, modern technologies and skill development, especially in value addition and food exports.

Another key request is the setting up of a Mango Board in Amaravati. Given that Andhra Pradesh is one of India’s largest mango-producing states, such a board would help farmers with better pricing, export promotion, quality standards and supply-chain infrastructure.

The proposal also includes bringing the National Fisheries Development Board to Amaravati. With Andhra Pradesh being a leader in aquaculture and fisheries, this move could significantly boost inland and marine fisheries, improve farmer incomes and strengthen exports.

Overall, these requests reflect the state government’s broader vision to make Amaravati a national hub for agriculture, food processing, and fisheries, while ensuring that growth directly benefits farmers and rural communities across Andhra Pradesh.