BRS Working President KTR expressed strong displeasure over the Congress government’s selective bonus scheme for farmers, specifically granting Rs 500 per quintal bonus only for fine varieties of paddy, while excluding common paddy.
He emphasised that the government must fulfil the promises made during elections, including a universal bonus for all paddy varieties, as stated in the Congress manifesto.
Addressing the delay in distributing the promised Rythu Bharosa funds for the monsoon season, KTR criticised the administration for its lack of commitment to farmers’ welfare.
“If there is Rs 1.5 lakh crore available for Musi clean-up, why aren’t there funds for farmers’ Rythu Bharosa and to pay bonus for ordinary paddy?” he asked.
He demanded that the Rs 500 per quintal bonus, promised for all paddy varieties, must be paid immediately.
He accused the Congress admin of deceiving farmers by failing to disburse last season’s bonus payments.
KTR submitted a letter on Thursday to the Chief Minister demanding prompt action on this issue. He noted that farmers had expected an announcement during the CM’s review meeting on paddy procurement but were left disappointed when only fine paddy was addressed.
“Farmers expected a bonus of Rs 500 per quintal for all paddy varieties and not a partial fulfillment,” he emphasised.
KTR also criticised the government’s failure to address Rythu Bharosa, reminding the administration of its commitment to provide Rs 7,500 per acre under this scheme.
“During the 2023 election campaign, the Congress promised immediate Rythu Bharosa, but even basic investment aid remains unpaid,” he remarked.
KTR also pointed out the delays in the government’s loan waiver scheme, which, despite a 100% waiver claim, remains incomplete. “With the Agriculture Minister himself revealing that 20 lakh farmers are awaiting loan waiver, it’s clear that the CM’s assurances are hollow,” KTR stated.
