Tree climbing machines not suitable for toddy trees: Goud

Hyderabad: Prohibition & Excise Minister V. Srinivas Goud said that the Telangana Government has dropped the proposal to provide multi tree climbing devices to toddy tappers in the State.

Replying to a question raised by MLAs Tolkanti Prakash Goud, Aroori Rameshi and Muthireddy Yadagiri Reddy during Question Hour in Assembly on Monday, the minister said that the government had made a provision for Rs. 1 Crore in the financial year 2016-17 & 2017-18 for the purpose. A detailed exercise was also carried out with organization of IIT, Hyderabad, JNTU - Hyderabad, Osmania University, Agriculture University and Horticulture University. However, it was found that the tree climbing machines were not suitable for climbing of toddy trees. He said that the proposal would be considered, if any suitable machines are obtained.

Explaining the measures taken by the State Government for the welfare of toddy tappers, the minister said that the ex-gratia has been enhanced from Rs. 2 lakhs to Rs. 5 lakhs in case of death and from Rs. 50,000/ to Rs. 5.00 lakhs in case of permanent disability. He said toddy tappers were being given Aasara pensions and the eligible age has been reduced to 50 years. He said the government has also permitted conversion of TFTs into TCS and extended license period from 5 years to 10 years. The State Government waived off Rs. 16 crores toddy rentals per year and waived off Rs. 7.99 crores of toddy arrears, he said.