Suryaa News Desk: Former Anaparthi MLA and YSRCP constituency coordinator Dr. Sathi Suryanarayana Reddy has stated that the government holds the responsibility to support farmers severely affected by the recent cyclone in the Anaparthi constituency. He reported that paddy crops across approximately 30,000 acres have been completely damaged.
Dr. Reddy noted that the crops were nearing harvest within 15 days when the cyclone caused them to collapse, leaving farmers in a difficult situation. He highlighted that farmers, who had already taken loans for cultivation, are now facing an additional financial burden. According to the former MLA, farmers are reporting that the cost of using harvester machines to cut the flattened crops has increased to four times the usual rate.
Reflecting on the previous YSRCP administration, he stated that the government had provided free crop insurance and covered the premium costs, ensuring financial security through input subsidies or insurance during natural disasters. He criticized the current coalition government for failing to provide adequate assurance regarding crop insurance.
Furthermore, he alleged that despite rising rice prices in the market, farmers are unable to benefit due to the interference of middlemen, which prevents them from receiving remunerative prices. He expressed concern for tenant farmers, noting that they have invested heavily and are now in a deeper crisis due to the crop loss, with limited access to further credit.
Dr. Reddy demanded that the government move beyond issuing government orders and conducting reviews, urging them to conduct a comprehensive assessment of crop damage at the field level. He called for immediate compensation for every damaged acre. He warned that if the government does not respond and support the farmers, it may lead to a situation where farmers are discouraged from continuing agriculture, potentially resulting in a crop holiday in the state.