Andhra Pradesh to grow saffron in Lambasingi
Andhra Pradesh is gearing up to grow saffron in Lambasingi—often called the "Kashmir of Andhra Pradesh"—with help from private companies and local tribal communities.
Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu's new plan uses a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model to boost natural farming and turn the state into an export hub for high-value crops.
What's the bigger picture?
This isn't just about adding another crop. Companies will be permitted to grow saffron in Lambasingi under a PPP model with participation of local tribal communities, and incentives and assistance have been mentioned.
Plus, it's part of a bigger push: Andhra Pradesh has set a target of 40 lakh farmers adopting natural farming over 50 lakh acres, plans to launch "Cocoa City," to go digital with farm apps, and to take steps to boost exports of shrimp, chili, mango, rice and processed foods, and to improve banana exports.
If you're interested in how tech, sustainability, and agriculture are coming together in India—this is one to watch.