Vijayawada: The Andhra Pradesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry Federation (AP Chambers) has requested Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu to reconsider the proposed merger of the state’s agriculture and horticulture universities. In a formal appeal, AP Chambers President Potluri Bhaskara Rao and General Secretary B. Rajasekhar highlighted the vital role of both universities in strengthening Andhra Pradesh’s agrarian economy. They stressed that agriculture and horticulture are two distinct fields, each requiring specialized education, research, and innovation.
Agriculture focuses on crop production, soil management, and food security, while horticulture deals with high-value crops such as fruits, vegetables, spices, and floriculture. These horticultural products play a crucial role in exports and rural employment. The AP Chambers leaders argued that merging the universities could hinder progress in these sectors.
The AP Chambers emphasized that maintaining independent universities would lead to: Focused Research & Innovation, specialized studies to tackle sector-specific challenges. Improved learning opportunities for students. Effective programs to help farmers adopt new technologies. Attracting investments and research grants.
Andhra Pradesh has become India’s horticulture hub, ranking No. 1 in fruit production and No. 2 in vegetable exports. The state’s Food Processing Policy 2024-29 aims to boost horticulture-based industries, value addition, and exports. The AP Chambers believes keeping both universities separate aligns with this vision and will further strengthen the agribusiness sector.
They urged the state government to protect the independence of both universities for the long-term growth of farmers, agripreneurs, and allied industries.
