CM: Rythu Bharosa and distribution of new ration cards to take-off on R-Day

Addressing a press conference at the Secretariat after the state Cabinet meeting, he outlined key features of the scheme aimed at extending the benefit to agricultural land under active cultivation and supporting farmers without any restrictions on extent of land besides agricultural labourers.

Under Rythu Bharosa, farmers will receive ₹12,000 per acre annually — an increase from the ₹10,000 provided under the BRS government’s Rythu Bandhu. While the Congress had promised ₹15,000 per acre in its election manifesto, he explained that the initial amount was set at ₹12,000 due to financial constraints, with a plan to enhance it in phases.

For the first time, landless agricultural labourers will also benefit under the Indiramma Atmiya Bharosa scheme, receiving ₹12,000 annually. This initiative, also starting on Republic Day, seeks to address the long-standing neglect of this vulnerable group, who were excluded under Rythu Bandhu.

"The BRS regime neglected landless agricultural labourers, who were facing many hardships. Our government is committed to rectifying this injustice," he stated.

Unlike the earlier scheme, the Rythu Bharosa will come with stricter guidelines. The benefits will apply to agricultural land that is being actively cultivated, regardless of the size or extent. Non-agricultural land — including those used for real estate ventures, industrial purposes, or land acquired for government projects — will be excluded.

Reddy said that the government would identify and remove such lands through village-level audits (gram sabhas) conducted by revenue officials.

In addition to these measures, the Cabinet has decided to issue new ration cards to all eligible BPL families, with the distribution also commencing on January 26.

The Chief Minister highlighted the significance of aligning these welfare measures with the Republic Day celebrations, stressing the 75th anniversary of the Constitution as a milestone of justice and equity.

He said that Rythu Bharosa assistance will be distributed in two installments —₹ 6,000 each for the kharif and rabi seasons. This represents a ₹2,000 increase compared to the Rythu Bandhu scheme.

Farmers and landowners are encouraged to voluntarily disclose land converted for non-agricultural purposes to avoid misuse of public funds, he said.

Revanth Reddy accused the BRS government of mismanagement and misuse of public funds by extending benefits to non-agricultural lands. He stated that lands classified as agricultural in the Dharani portal, despite being converted for other uses, will now be thoroughly audited.

Revenue officials will conduct gram sabhas in every village to inform farmers about the lands excluded from the scheme.
Reddy reiterated his government’s commitment to increasing state revenues and ensuring equitable distribution among citizens.

"Our policy is to maximise government revenue and use it to uplift the people of Telangana," he stated.