Telangana farmers a call away from agri experts

Hyderabad: The Telangana Agriculture Department has launched a comprehensive initiative to expand agricultural extension services to farmers across the state via mobile technology. State Director for Agriculture B Gopi announced on Wednesday that in addition to existing field-level assistance provided by officers ranging from extension staff to commissionerate officials, the Kisan Helpline Centre is now enabling farmers to receive expert advisory services directly on their mobile phones.

Gopi highlighted that whether crops suffer pest infestations, farmers require fertilizer dosage clarity, or beneficiaries face issues accessing welfare initiatives, agriculturalists can dial toll-free number 1800-180-1551. The helpline provides immediate advice and information in Telugu daily between 6 AM and 10 PM throughout the week. Operating under the Union Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare nationally since 2004, the centre serves Telangana farmers from the office of the Commissioner and Director of Agriculture in Hyderabad. The expanded service provides expert scientific guidance, details on central and state government welfare schemes, resolution of agricultural doubts, and technical cultivation methods regarding seeds, fertilizers, and crop management.

Furthermore, the helpline furnishes vital input details concerning seed supplies, fertilizers, pesticides, and prevailing market prices, along with livestock health and nutrition advice. The platform delivers real-time weather and disaster alerts following Meteorological Department advisories while resolving technical issues related to the Central Fertiliser App. Beyond advisories, farmers can report formal complaints regarding government welfare schemes through an integrated digital Farmers Grievance Redressal System that facilitates necessary resolution steps. Gopi stated that field-level Agricultural Extension Officers and Mandal Agricultural Officers have been directed to generate awareness in remote villages, urging farmers to utilize the toll-free services to resolve agricultural challenges effectively.

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The Hans India