Tenant farmers demand recognition, Rs 20,000 aid from government

Amalapuram – Andhra Pradesh: Tenant farmers in Mamidikuduru mandal urged the newly elected Andhra Pradesh government to deliver on its promises, demanding formal recognition, access to welfare schemes, and Rs 20,000 annual support under the Annadata Sukhibhava scheme, while preparing for a statewide protest in Vijayawada on June 11.

Landowner signature clause still a barrier

Tenant Farmers Association state leader B Balaram criticized both the previous and current state governments for not eliminating the requirement of landowner signatures for issuing identity cards. He pointed out that only 70% of tenant farmers are able to practice agriculture due to lack of official recognition and access to benefits like crop loans, compensation, and crop insurance.

No welfare for landless tenant farmers

Speakers highlighted that landless tenant farmers, especially from OC communities, were excluded from farmer welfare schemes by the previous government. Despite promising reforms, the current Telugu Desam–Jana Sena coalition is yet to implement a new law to address these concerns and is instead continuing the policies of the previous YSRCP government.

Central government refuses to recognize tenant farmers

Criticism was also directed at the BJP-led central government for excluding tenant farmers from the Rs 6,000 PM-KISAN scheme. While promises were made to extend benefits to tenant farmers, no progress has been made, worsening their financial distress.

Falling crop prices deepen crisis

Tenant farmers reported heavy losses due to declining prices of key crops such as rice, chilli, tobacco, cocoa, and pulses. With rising debt and inadequate support, the situation has become dire, pushing some farmers toward suicide.

Demand for Rs 20,000 support and June 11 protest

The Tenant Farmers Association is demanding that every tenant farmer be identified and granted Rs 20,000 annually under the Annadata Sukhibhava scheme. A protest march titled Chalo Vijayawada will be held on June 11, starting from Mangalagiri NRI Hospital to the Agriculture Commissioner’s Office, where a petition will be submitted.

Pamphlet released, leaders voice solidarity

After the meeting, the Chalo Vijayawada pamphlet was formally launched. CITU District President G Durga Prasad, former Vice President K Satyanarayana, and several local tenant farmers participated and expressed solidarity with the cause.