CM Chandrababu Naidu seeks relief package for drought and cyclone-hit farmers

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has sought a special relief package from the Central Government for the drought-affected farmers of the state. The Chief Minister presented these demands during a meeting with the Inter-Ministerial Central Team (IMCT) on Wednesday. He requested the Centre to provide comprehensive assistance to Andhra Pradesh, as several districts are facing severe drought, while coastal areas have been devastated by two successive cyclones.

According to a report by The Hindu, CM Naidu has demanded that the number of employment days under the MGNREGS scheme be increased to 200 and its scope be extended to agricultural activities. He argued that this would address the shortage of labour, particularly in natural farming, and create additional employment in rural areas. Furthermore, he demanded the issuance of ration cards for eligible families affected by the drought. He recalled that during previous droughts, farmers in Rayalaseema owning up to 10 acres of land were also provided with ration cards.

To reduce the debt burden on farmers, the Chief Minister demanded the rescheduling of agricultural loans. Additionally, he requested the speedy settlement of crop insurance claims and the direct transfer of compensation amounts into farmers' bank accounts. He clarified that while the state government is providing input subsidies, it is essential that insurance compensation from the Centre is received promptly.

Kharif crops have suffered heavy losses due to rainfall deficiency and prolonged dry spells in the state. There is a severe shortage of irrigation water, drinking water, and fodder for livestock in the Rayalaseema region. Anantapur district, in particular, has recorded the second lowest rainfall in the country. The Chief Minister stated that 412 mandals across 21 districts of the state have been declared drought-affected, and a crop loss report will be submitted to the Central Government within the next week.

Expressing concern over the sharp decline in groundwater levels, Naidu demanded the expansion of the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) to develop rural water sources and interconnect them. He further emphasised that since the drought has impacted livestock and rural livelihoods, ensuring an adequate supply of drinking water and fodder is imperative.

The Central Team visited Kurnool, Nandyal, Anantapur, and Sri Sathya Sai districts on November 2 and 3 to assess the drought situation. Members of the Central Team stated that they would submit their report within 15 days based on field inspections, interactions with farmers, and information provided by the state government. The Central Government will proceed with assistance after reviewing this report. The Chief Minister requested the team to consider both the impact of drought in several districts and the cyclone damage in coastal Andhra Pradesh while recommending aid.