Hyderabad: Scientific urea use was stressed by Agriculture Minister Tummala Nageswara Rao on Tuesday, who urged farmers to avoid excessive application and protect soil health.
The Minister interacted with farmers during the weekly ‘Rythu Nestam’ programme through a video conference from the State Secretariat. He reviewed feedback on the Urea App and discussed issues related to fertiliser usage.
Farmers said the app helped eliminate long queues and enabled convenient booking and collection of urea. They requested that future urea sales continue through the application. The Minister noted their feedback during the interaction.
Scientific urea use key to soil health and yield
Tummala said Telangana’s high urea consumption remains a concern. Therefore, he called for restraint and promoted scientific urea use to maintain soil fertility.
He warned that excessive use of urea damages soil health. It also reduces crop yields over time and increases pest and disease problems. As a result, farmers may face long-term productivity losses.
The Minister also advised farmers against stubble burning. He said burning crop residue harms the environment. Since the harvest season has begun, he urged farmers to avoid this practice.
Scientific urea use and crop diversification push
The Minister encouraged farmers to adopt crop diversification along with scientific urea use. He suggested cultivating oil palm alongside paddy, cotton and maize to ensure stable incomes.
Meanwhile, Huzurabad Municipal Chairman, along with councillors and sarpanches, met the Minister. They urged him to halt the proposed dumping yard project in the town. The Minister received their representation during the meeting.