Kurnool to expand horticulture cultivation by 60,000 hectares

Kurnool district is planning a major expansion of its horticulture sector, aiming to add 60,000 hectares to the existing 86,000 hectares currently under cultivation. The initiative is part of the ‘Global Horticulture Hub – Rayalaseema Rising’ programme, which seeks to strengthen the entire value chain through improved irrigation, processing, and marketing infrastructure.

To support this growth, approximately Rs 2,019 crore has been proposed for irrigation projects, including the Vedavathi project, which is expected to irrigate nearly 80,000 acres. Other plans include increasing the capacity of the Gajuladinne Project and developing 111 minor irrigation tanks. The administration will also focus on water-use efficiency through drip irrigation, micro-irrigation, and farm ponds.

Infrastructure developments include a proposed Rs 2,200-crore plan for horticulture-linked infrastructure and rural roads, covering hundreds of kilometers of new and upgraded roads to connect production centers to markets. The district currently generates approximately Rs 6,768 crore in Gross Value Added from horticulture. The expansion will promote demand-based and climate-resilient crops such as mango, sweet orange, onion, chilli, papaya, vegetables, and flowers.