Former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy has strongly criticized the coalition government for neglecting farmers who suffered massive losses due to unseasonal rains and gale winds. He demanded immediate compensation and relief for the affected farmers, particularly those who lost their standing horticulture crops.
During his visit to Thatireddypalli in Lingala Mandal, YS Jagan interacted with distressed farmers who shared their grievances, stating that despite informing the authorities, no assistance had been provided. Witnessing the severe damage to banana plantations, he accused the government of failing to support the farming community.
Cold Storage Facilities Neglected by the Government
YS Jagan pointed out that the YSRCP government had set up integrated cold storage units worth ₹25 crores to help farmers during crises. However, the coalition government failed to hand over these facilities to user agencies, depriving farmers of essential storage and procurement support. He highlighted that these cold storage units, with a 500-metric-ton capacity, could have prevented losses if they were operational.
Free Crop Insurance & Zero-Interest Loans Abolished
Criticizing the government’s anti-farmer policies, YS Jagan stated that the free crop insurance scheme introduced during his tenure had been scrapped, leaving farmers vulnerable. He also condemned the discontinuation of zero-interest loans, which had previously benefited the farming community.
Sharp Decline in Prices & Government’s Failure to Intervene
He expressed concern over the drastic fall in crop prices, stating that banana prices had plummeted from ₹26,000 to ₹9,000 and further to ₹6,000. He also alleged that the government had failed to procure paddy, mirchi, and other crops, worsening the financial crisis for farmers.
YS Jagan Assures Support & Promises Immediate Action
He demanded input subsidy and insurance for 4,000 acres of affected farmland and assured farmers that his party would mount pressure on the government to ensure compensation. He recalled how the YSRCP government had successfully supported farmers even during the COVID-19 pandemic, facilitating exports of banana and other horticulture crops.
YS Jagan also promised that once YSRCP returns to power, all pending dues and relief amounts would be credited to farmers’ accounts immediately. He assured the farmers that he would coordinate with MP YS Avinash Reddy to extend all possible support from the party.
MP YS Avinash Reddy accompanied the former Chief Minister during his visit.
