YSRCP district president and former minister Kakani Govardhan Reddy has lambasted the coalition government, accusing it of neglecting the farming community and plunging the agricultural sector into a severe crisis.
Addressing a press conference in Nellore, Kakani expressed concern over the alarming rise in farmer suicides. While unofficial figures indicate over 150 deaths, the government has acknowledged only 95. He criticised the administration for failing to ensure remunerative prices for crops and timely support during natural calamities, leaving farmers in dire straits. Referring to the tragic suicide of a farming couple in the YSR district, Kakani attributed it to the government’s indifference and lack of commitment to addressing farmer grievances.
Kakani specifically targeted Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu, accusing him of repeatedly betraying farmers. He highlighted Naidu’s unfulfilled promises, including complete loan waivers and annual financial assistance of Rs 20,000. Instead, he alleged, Naidu mocked the plight of farmers by downplaying their suicides and providing inadequate compensation.
In contrast, Kakani praised the previous YSRCP government led by Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy for its pro-farmer initiatives. He noted that compensation for farmer suicides was increased to Rs 7 lakh and 53.58 lakh farming families were supported with Rs 13,500 annually under the “Rythu Bharosa” scheme.
Kakani also pointed out that the government owes farmers Rs 12,563 crore in pending dues, including drought relief, crop insurance, and financial assistance. He demanded the immediate implementation of promises such as Rs 20,000 annual support, restoration of Rythu Bharosa Kendras (RBKs), and free crop insurance.
Warning of intensified protests, Kakani said, “The coalition government has become a curse for farmers. It must act immediately to resolve
these issues or face the collective wrath of the farming community.”
Coalition govt a curse for farmers: Kakani
