Andhra Pradesh: ITDA ready to meet coffee bean collection targets 2,000 tonnes
21 Nov 2024 8:49 PM IST
Integrated Tribal Development Agency (ITDA) is taking decisive steps to boost coffee bean collection and restore coffee cultivation across 10,300 acres. (Image: DC)
Visakhapatnam: The Integrated Tribal Development Agency (ITDA) is taking decisive steps to boost coffee bean collection and restore coffee cultivation across 10,300 acres. ITDA project officer V. Abhishek has issued ths directives to meet the set targets for this season. A meeting held on Thursday at the ITDA conference hall brought together coffee Agricultural Extension Officers (AEOs), field consultants, horticulture consultants and the Chintapalli Max Society’s president and Board directors.
During the meeting, Abhishek emphasised on collecting at least 2,000 tonnes of coffee beans from the 11 mandals under ITDA’s jurisdiction. Additionally, he underscored the goal of producing 350 tonnes of parchment coffee.
Expanding the number of board directors in the Max Society to cover all 11 mandals was also highlighted, ensuring that farmers in each mandal are provided with ownership and support.
Last year, farmers received an advance payment of Rs 43 per kilo of coffee berries, with an additional Rs 3 bonus. This year, the payment has been increased to Rs 44 per kilo to collect 60 per cent of the berries by December. Charges for coffee bean transport vehicles have also been fixed, considering the distances from the mandal centres. Vehicles will be hired accordingly and transport charges will be paid based on these rates.
Gardens with 400 plants will be identified to revive old coffee gardens. Steps will be taken to rejuvenate these coffee plants and enhance productivity.
Abhishek warned that action would be taken against staff members who show negligence in achieving these targets.
ITDA assistant project officer Venkateswara Rao, assistant director of coffee N. Ashok, Max Society president Seggi Kondala Rao, vice-president Gam Simhachalam and other Board directors participated in the meeting.
( Source : Deccan Chronicle )
Next Story
