Overview Cocoa farmers, under the banner of the Andhra Pradesh Cocoa Farmers’ Association , staged a protest in front of the Eluru Collectorate on Monday, January 12, 2026 . Their primary demand is the procurement of cocoa beans at international market prices and a clear price policy from the State government. Key Demands and Issues Fair Pricing The farmers are demanding that cocoa beans be procured at international market prices, which are currently over ₹550 per kg . They allege that companies in the State are procuring them at around ₹400 per kg , exploiting farmers due to the absence of a government-declared price policy. Establishment of Regulatory Bodies State Cocoa Board: The farmers are calling for the immediate constitution of a State Cocoa Board to address long-standing issues faced by cocoa growers in Andhra Pradesh. Central Cocoa Research Centre: They also seek the establishment of a Central Cocoa Research Centre to provide research and development support to cocoa farmers. Government Promises and Lack of Implementation The association leaders recalled that the State government had promised in 2025 to announce a price formula aligned with international market rates, but this assurance has not been implemented. Impact of Import Duties The farmers raised concerns over low import duties on foreign cocoa beans and cocoa-based products, which they say are flooding the domestic market and adversely impacting Indian cocoa growers. They are urging the Central government to immediately increase import duties to protect domestic farmers. Protest Details Collective Representation As part of the protest, the farmers organised a collective representation programme and submitted memoranda to the District Revenue Officer during the Public Grievance Redressal System (PGRS) session at the Collectorate. Association Leadership Key leaders of the association, including S. Gopalakrishna (State honorary president), Bollu Ramakrishna (State president), and K. Srinivas (State general secretary), addressed the gathering, highlighting the issues faced by the farmers. UPSC Relevance GS3: Agriculture and Economy This news article is relevant to GS3: Agriculture and GS3: Economy . It highlights the challenges faced by cocoa farmers, the importance of fair pricing, and the role of government intervention in the agricultural sector. The demand for a State Cocoa Board and Central Cocoa Research Centre is also relevant to GS2: Government Policies . Potential Mains Questions Discuss the challenges faced by cocoa farmers in Andhra Pradesh and suggest measures to improve their livelihoods. Evaluate the role of government policies in ensuring fair prices for agricultural produce and protecting domestic farmers from international competition. Examine the need for regulatory bodies like the State Cocoa Board and research institutions like the Central Cocoa Research Centre in promoting sustainable agricultural development.