Metro India News | AMARAVATI

Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu launched the much-awaited Annadata Sukhibhava-PM Kisan scheme at Veerayapalem village in Prakasam district on Saturday, fulfilling a major promise under the coalition’s “Super Six” agenda. Addressing farmers amid lush green fields, Naidu announced that Rs.7,000 each has been credited to the accounts of 46.85 lakh farmers across the state in the first phase, totaling Rs.3,175 crore.

Of the credited amount, Rs.5,000 per farmer was contributed by the state government, while Rs.2,000 came from the Centre under the PM-Kisan scheme. “I saw happiness in the eyes of farmers today. This initiative is not just financial support, it’s a mark of respect to the hands that feed the nation,” Naidu said, and added that the scheme will be disbursed in three phases, providing Rs.20,000 annually to every eligible farmer.

Naidu outlined district-wise benefits, stating that Prakasam district alone received Rs.186 crore, supporting over 2.65 lakh farmers. In Darsi constituency, Rs.29 crore was credited to 42,786 farmers, while in Veerayapalem village, 476 farmers received Rs.31 lakh collectively. He also announced a dedicated portal and toll-free number (155251) to address farmers’ queries or complaints.

The CM said his government is focused on combining welfare with technology. “We will issue scientific crop advisories to help farmers make informed choices. In the coming season, we aim to complete Veligonda Phase 1 to supply Krishna waters to Prakasam district,” he added.

Naidu further spoke about ongoing welfare schemes, and starting August 15, free bus travel will be available to 2.6 crore women under the Sthree Shakti scheme. Under Deepam, three free LPG cylinders are being provided to every eligible household, with an outlay of Rs.2,700 crore.

On irrigation, Naidu said AP leads the country in drip irrigation; last year, 1.17 lakh hectares were covered, benefiting 1.11 lakh farmers. Subsidies now stand at 100% for SC/ST farmers and up to 90% in Rayalaseema and Prakasam. He also promised rapid procurement, fair prices, and modern tools, including the rollout of 875 Kisan drones.

In a scathing attack on opposition, Naidu urged the public to remain vigilant against “criminal elements wearing political masks” and reaffirmed his vision to make Andhra Pradesh India’s No. 1 state by 2047.