Jagan accuses Chandrababu Naidu of neglecting Andhra Pradesh farmers

AMARAVATI: YSR Congress Party president and former Chief Minister YS Jaganmohan Reddy has accused the TDP government led by Nara Chandrababu Naidu of neglecting the welfare of the state's farmers.

In a post on the micro-blogging site X (formerly Twitter) on Sunday, Jagan criticised the government's delay in paying crop insurance premiums for the 2023-24 Kharif season.

Jagan highlighted that the delay in premium payment could jeopardise the farmers' eligibility for crop insurance payouts. He contrasted this with his government's proactive approach, stating that premiums were paid promptly between April and May during his tenure, ensuring timely compensation to farmers by June.

He further emphasised that his government prioritised easing the financial burden on farmers by covering the entire premium amount, enabling them to avail free crop insurance. He added that the central government would release its share immediately upon the state government's payment, leading to swift compensation by insurance companies within 30 days.

Jagan also pointed out the government's inaction regarding the promised Rythu Bharosa financial assistance of Rs 20,000 per year to each farmer. He stated that despite the Kharif season nearing its end, no announcement had been made regarding the disbursement of this aid.

He contrasted this with his government's commitment to farmer welfare, highlighting that despite the economic challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, his government ensured timely disbursement of Rythu Bharosa, providing a total of Rs 34,288 crores to 53.58 lakh farmers.