Revanth seeks suggestions from opposition also on Rythu Bharosa implementation

metro india news  I hyderabad

The Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy made a strong statement about the state government's commitment to the welfare of farmers and the flagship "Rythu Bharosa" scheme (farmers’ investment support scheme), clarifying the government's stance on the support it intends to offer to farmers.

"The primary goal of Rythu Bharosa is to support the farming community, particularly those who depend on land for their livelihood. We remain committed to ensuring that farmers are provided the assistance they need. However, we seek suggestions from the opposition to finalize the modalities of the scheme," said CM Revanth Reddy while speaking in the short discussion on Rythu Bharosa held in the Assembly on Saturday.

Revanth criticized the previous government's handling of the "Rythu Bandhu" scheme, which he stated had been misused. He pointed out that under the previous government, large sums of money were allocated to undeserving individuals and entities, including uncultivated lands, lay outs and national highways. "Out of the Rs. 72,817 crore spent in the form of Rythu Bandhu, almost Rs. 22,000 crore went to undeserving recipients.

The government waived loans worth Rs. 20,616 crore for over 25 lakh farmers in a record 27 days, which is unprecedented in the country.  Should we extend the support to mountains, stones and roads?" CM asked.

Second highest number of farmers’ suicides

He also highlighted the alarming number of farmer suicides under the previous government, which, according to him, was an issue that was never adequately addressed. He cited the significant number of suicides in Telangana during the BRS rule, noting that the state had recorded the second-highest number of farmer suicides in the country.

Addressing the opposition, Reddy emphasized that while the opposition has been critical of the current government’s actions, it should reflect on the record of its own tenure. "The previous government waived loans of just Rs. 16,143 crore over five years, whereas we have waived over Rs. 20,000 crore in just one year. Our efforts to support farmers are unparalleled," he stated.

Cong. always been pro-farmers

On the issue of loan waivers, the Chief Minister stated, "The Congress party has been a strong advocate for farmers' welfare. The Congress government waived loans worth Rs. 20,616 crore for over 25 lakh farmers in a record 27 days, which is unprecedented in the country. We see this not as a great achievement, but as our responsibility."

Reddy also reminded the opposition that the Congress party has always been steadfast in its commitment to the people of Telangana. "It was Sonia Gandhi's leadership that granted statehood to Telangana, and the opposition should not forget that the BRS leadership sought her support when they were powerless," he concluded.

The Chief Minister reiterated that the government was open to suggestions from all parties, but would continue to prioritize the welfare of farmers, ensuring that only those who truly deserve assistance benefit from schemes like Rythu Bharosa.