BJP demands ₹15,000-acre relief for farmers

BJP Legislature Party leader and Nirmal MLA Eleti Maheshwar Reddy on Wednesday has accused the Telangana government of failing to prepare for the impact of El Niño-induced drought conditions and demanded immediate relief measures for farmers facing crop losses, including compensation of ₹15,000 per acrefor those who suffered losses.

Addressing the media at the Secretariat, Mr. Reddy criticised the government for convening meetings on drought without announcing concrete relief measures or any action plan to support farmers despite the Centre warning about the possible impact of El Niño several months ago.

The BJP leader pointed to drought-relief initiatives undertaken by States such as Maharashtra and Gujarat, and alleged that Telangana had merely advised farmers against sowing crops without specifying how affected farmers would be compensated or supported.

He accused the government of neglecting crop insurance schemes, including the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana and sought clarity on repairs to irrigation tanks, the criteria used for declaring mandals as drought-affected, status of crop-loss enumeration, etc.

Expressing concern over reports of farmer suicides, he alleged that the government had failed to provide adequate support to the farming community. He further claimed that despite assurances of 24-hour free power supply, farmers were receiving electricity for only limited hours.

The BJP leader highlighted concerns over drinking water shortages in parts of Hyderabad and questioned rising rice prices in the open market. The government had also failed to undertake repairs to the Kaleshwaram project despite observations made by the National Dam Safety Authority.

He urged the government to immediately provide drought relief, implement crop insurance coverage, ensure adequate cattle fodder stocks and take proactive measures to mitigate the impact of drought on farmers and livestock.

Published - October 28, 2026 09:39 pm IST