Khammam: Agriculture minister Tummala Nageswara Rao on Monday urged citizens to report any instances of ineligible individuals being selected as beneficiaries of welfare schemes intended for the poor. He said that such schemes should benefit only those who are genuinely eligible.
Speaking after laying the foundation stone for road works in the 15th ward of Khammam city, the minister highlighted the state government's commitment to uplifting poor families through various welfare initiatives. He stressed the importance of public participation in ensuring transparency and fairness, urging people to alert officials if they encounter irregularities.
Minister Rao noted that several poll promises, including free travel for women in TGSRTC buses, Rs 500 LPG cylinders, and free electricity for domestic usage up to 200 units, have already been fulfilled by the government. Additionally, schemes such as Rythu Bharosa, Indiramma Houses, new ration cards, and Indiramma Atmeeya Bharosa were launched on January 26 to further support eligible families.
The minister encouraged farmers to switch from traditional crops to oil palm cultivation, pointing out that the state government offers Rs 52,000 per acre to support the transition. He said that oil palm provides higher income compared to paddy, cotton, and mirchi, which have recently been affected by adverse weather and crop diseases.
Highlighting the government's investment of Rs 40,000 crore in agriculture, Rao emphasised that Rythu Bharosa benefits should not be extended to uncultivated lands. He warned that allowing ineligible beneficiaries would undermine welfare and development efforts.
He added that the government has allocated Rs 25,000 crore for Indiramma Houses in the first phase and Rs 10,000 crore for Rythu Bharosa.
