<h1>Andhra Pradesh Tobacco Farmers Boost Earnings by Rs. 585 Crore Despite Lower Production; Prices and Exports Hit Record Highs.</h1> Tobacco farmers in Andhra Pradesh earned Rs. 585 crore more than the previous year despite a decrease in production from 172 million kg to 165 million kg. In 2008, the total revenue was Rs. 1,401 crore, compared to Rs. 784.82 crore in 2007. The average price per kilogram rose to Rs. 84.75, a 79% increase from Rs. 47.47 in 2007. The highest prices for quality tobacco reached Rs. 141.60 per kg, significantly higher than previous records. The Tobacco Board's measures against cartel formation and excess production contributed to these gains, alongside a record increase in tobacco exports. An electronic auction system was piloted to enhance transparency.