Tadepalli:
The YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) unveiled a poster titled “Support for Farmers by YSRCP” at the party headquarters in Tadepalli. The initiative aims to highlight the plight of farmers in Andhra Pradesh and pressure the state government to address their grievances.
Prominent leaders including former ministers Ambati Rambabu and Vellampalli Srinivas, MLCs Lella Appireddy and Ruhulla, Mangalagiri constituency coordinator Vemareddy, former LIDCAP Chairman Kakumanu Rajasekhar, and other key party members participated in the event.
Farmers in Dire Straits
Former minister Ambati Rambabu expressed grave concern over the deteriorating condition of farmers in the state.
- This year, untimely rains and cyclonic storms have significantly reduced crop yields to just 20-30 bags per acre.
- Despite the losses, farmers are unable to secure minimum support prices (MSP) for their produce.
Middlemen Exploiting Farmers:
Farmers, unable to store their paddy, are being forced to sell it at low prices on roadsides, with middlemen taking advantage of their distress. The government’s failure to ensure fair prices has aggravated the situation.
YSRCP to Pressure the Government
To advocate for farmers’ rights, the YSRCP announced a state-wide program to submit representations to district collectors on December 13.
Government’s Negligence:
Ambati Rambabu criticized Civil Supplies Minister Manohar for making empty promises to farmers. Despite assurances to purchase every grain of paddy, the government has failed to act on farmers’ repeated appeals.
Farmers Selling Paddy Below MSP:
The standard MSP of ₹1,725 per quintal is not being provided anywhere in the state. Instead, paddy is being purchased at just ₹1,300 per quintal due to claims of excess moisture content. With no storage options and fear of further cyclonic damage, farmers are left with no choice but to sell their produce at low prices.
Ambati Rambabu Slams Chandrababu Naidu
The former minister accused TDP chief Chandrababu Naidu of being anti-farmer.
- He alleged that Naidu, during his tenure, failed to deliver on his promise of farm loan waivers.
- Naidu’s election promises of increasing farmer subsidies, including Rythu Bharosa, have remained unfulfilled.
YSRCP Stands with Farmers
Under the leadership of YS Jagan Mohan Reddy, the YSRCP has consistently supported farmers. During its tenure, paddy was procured at prices higher than the MSP, Rambabu claimed. He emphasized that the current government’s failure has necessitated this program to highlight farmers’ struggles and hold the administration accountable.