Andhra Pradesh tops nation in micro irrigation

Andhra Pradesh has secured the first position in India in the implementation of micro-irrigation.
With this achievement, Andhra Pradesh has secured the first position at the national level in terms of area covered under micro irrigation for the year 2025-26
During 2025–26, micro-irrigation was implemented in 3.15 lakh acres across the state, benefiting 1,08,143 farmers. Other states such as Gujarat (2.63 lakh acres), Tamil Nadu (2.62 lakh acres), and Rajasthan (2.42 lakh acres) followed behind.
The initiative continues to play a crucial role in promoting water-use efficiency and sustainable agricultural practices in the state.
The major crops covered under micro-irrigation include tomato, oil palm, chilli, mango, sweet lime, banana, coconut, pomegranate, onion, groundnut, maize, cotton, and pulses.
Banana exports increased from 1 lakh metric tonnes last year to 1.30 lakh metric tonnes in 2025-26, reflecting growing global demand.
In terms of subsidies, Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) farmers received 55% subsidy from the central government, while the state government extended it to 100% subsidy.
Small and marginal farmers received 55% central subsidy, which was enhanced to 90% by the state government. For other farmers, while the central subsidy stood at 45%, the state provided 90% subsidy in Rayalaseema and Prakasam districts, and 70% subsidy in other districts.
According to official data, a total area of 1,26,057 hectares has been brought under micro irrigation, benefiting 1,08,143 farmers across the state. Of this, Drip Irrigation accounts for a major share, covering 1,07,472 hectares and supporting 92,505 farmers, while Sprinkler Irrigation has been implemented in 18,585 hectares, benefiting 15,638 farmers.
On the financial front, the project has recorded a total outlay of Rs 1,232.86 crore, including a subsidy component of Rs 1,030.42 crore and a farmer contribution of Rs 202.44 crore.
The Micro Irrigation Project has been instrumental in improving crop productivity, conserving water resources, and enhancing farmers’ incomes, reinforcing Andhra Pradesh’s leadership in agricultural innovation