Biotechnology Policy of Andhra Pradesh

Andhra Pradesh is endowed with rich bio-resources. There are 7 agro-climatic zones across the State, with 19 major food and commercial crops grown in different parts of the State. There are more than 5000 species of trees and, out of these, 2000 species are flowering trees. About 40 percent of the land is utilised for agriculture and 23 percent of the land is covered by forests in the State.

Agriculture is the lifeline of Andhra Pradesh's economy. The sector contributes over a third of the State's GSDP and provides livelihood for over 70% of its population. It is one of the top three rice-producing States in the country and accounts for about 12% of the nation’s rice production. The State has a strong base in horticulture, producing a variety of condiments, fruits and vegetables such as mangoes, citrus fruits, grapes, custard apples, bananas, pineapple, tomatoes and onions. In fact, Andhra Pradesh is the second largest producer of fruits in India and one of the largest vegetable producing States in the country. Andhra Pradesh is a leading producer of a large number of cash crops such as tobacco, oil-seeds, cotton, sugarcane, cashew, mesta, turmeric and chillies. It is the "Seed State" of India, with its progressive farmers taking up production of seed for a variety of crops on behalf of Government and of private seed companies. Floriculture and the cultivation of aromatic and medicinal plants are also rapidly growing sectors. Andhra Pradesh is the second largest producer of silkworm cocoons in the country and sericulture is an important activity in the drought-prone Rayalaseema districts.

Download entire Biotech Policy Document