A team of senior officers from the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India, led by Additional Secretary, Department of Commerce, Shri Nitin Kumar Yadav, IAS, reviewed the ongoing Andhra Pradesh Flue Cured Virginia (FCV) Tobacco Marketing Season 2025–26 in Hyderabad. The team held discussions with tobacco growers, manufacturers, exporters, dealers, trade associations and the Tobacco Board.

The meeting reviewed the prevailing market situation and reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to safeguarding the interests of tobacco growers. Discussions focused on measures to accelerate procurement, facilitate exports and strengthen the overall marketing ecosystem for FCV tobacco.

The meeting also reviewed various initiatives aimed at improving the functioning of the sector, including restructuring of the Tobacco Board, enhancement of benefits under the Growers’ Welfare Fund, simplification of registration procedures, digital initiatives and the introduction of AI-based grading.

Discussions were also held on expanding export market opportunities across various countries and promoting crop diversification in suitable areas.

Additional Secretary, Department of Commerce, Shri Nitin Kumar Yadav, expressed confidence that coordinated efforts by all stakeholders would strengthen the long-term sustainability and global competitiveness of the Indian FCV tobacco sector.

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Abhishek Dayal/Garima Singh/Anushka Pandey