Andhra Pradesh announces toddy policy for 2022-27

Vijayawada: The AP government has doubled the compensation for the kin of deceased toddy tappers to Rs 10 lakh from Rs five lakh, in cases of accidental deaths while tapping. This formed part of the new toddy policy issued for 2022-27 here on Monday.

The revenue (excise) department issued the GO with new guidelines. The policy of granting right to sell toddy to the tappers’ cooperative society and the Tree for Tappers and to the Scheduled Tribes in scheduled areas shall be continued.

The licence period is five years and will end on September 30, 2027.

The commissioner of prohibition and excise would fix the number of toddy shops having due regard to requirement, public order and availability of excise trees in tropes within 100km from the area of the shop.

The collection of toddy rentals -- Rs 25 per tree in the rural areas and Rs 50 in urban areas per annum -- shall continue to be abolished to provide succour to the poor tappers who pursue “very hazardous and seasonal occupation.”

The government is keen on ensuring alternative skill development for the disabled tappers who sustained disability while engaged in tapping. Alternative skill development shall be worked out through the Skill Development Corporation so as to provide an alternative income source to such disabled tappers.

Permanently disabled tappers, those who have become disabled while engaged in tapping, shall be extended the benefits under the YSR Bhma.

Out of the Rs 10 lakh compensation for the kin of each deceased tapper, the victim’s family shall be paid Rs 5 lakh by the labour department. The balance amount would be paid in the form of ex-gratia by the state government. The scheme may be named ‘YSR Geetakarmika Bharosa.’

In case of natural death, the legal heir of the deceased tapper shall be extended the benefits under YSR Bhima.