Metro India News | Hyderabad 

The Federation of Farmers Associations Telangana (FFAT) are demanding for a permanent farmers’ welfare association. In an interaction with the media, the members called for the establishment of a permanent farmers’ welfare commission to ensure continuous policy representation and safeguard farming interests. The meeting concluded with a collective call for action, urging swift government intervention to protect Telangana’s farmers.  

The members said despite the state achieving a record-breaking 50 lakh metric tonnes (LMT) harvest this Rabi season there are gaps in the procurement of crops and demanded the government take immediate action.

Former Minister Gutha Mohan Reddy criticized the Congress-led state government for its failure to procure paddy on time. He pointed out that farmers in districts like Nalgonda have been waiting for over ten days at procurement centers, while unseasonal rains have already led to significant crop damage. He also raised concerns about irrigation projects in Khammam and Nalgonda, emphasizing that South Telangana is facing severe water and farming challenges. Despite government efforts, many projects remain incomplete, leaving farmers struggling with unreliable water sources. 

Mandadi Srinivas Reddy, Vice President of FFAT, voiced concerns over the neglect of the Krishna River basin, stating that while irrigation projects flourish along the Godavari River, those relying on Krishna water are facing severe hardships. He urged the government to prioritize new irrigation projects, such as barrages and canals, to support farmers dependent on Krishna's waters. 

Srinivas Reddy, President of the Krishna River Protection Joint Action Committee (JAC), advocated for reservations for farmer families, arguing that agriculture is undervalued as a profession. He stressed that systemic inequality is forcing many farmers to abandon agriculture or face dire financial consequences. Sri Ram Reddy, president of FFAT, emphasized the urgency of paddy procurement before the monsoon rains arrive, warning that further delays would make losses irrecoverable.