Rythu Bandhu for 30,000 farmers

Vikarabad: Implementation of the second phase of prestigious ‘Rythu Bandhu’ scheme has seen a bumpy ride this time. Some glitches in the implementation are watering down the very essence of the scheme. The government decided to extend financial help to 2.25 lakh farmers in the district. But 30,000 farmers could not receive the amount.

There are 2, 25, 215 farmers are in the district and 2,28,715 cheques were made ready for distribution. The amount is approximately more than Rs 244 cr. But Rs 23.56 cr amount has been left in the banks because several farmers did not claim their amount. Due to code of conduct, the financial assistance has been done through money transfer. Estimations say that almost 30-40 thousand of famers might have received the amount. Officials assure that remaining farmers will also get their amount soon. But farmers, who did not receive the financial assistance in previous season (khareef) are again not be able to avail the scheme this time. By result, almost 30, 000 farmers are affected.

Some discrepancies have been taken place while preparing the cheques as per the acres of cultivation was considered. Some cheques have been prepared on the names of farmers who are no more. Moreover, the area of cultivation differs from season to season. Some farmers complain that banks are not allowing them to withdraw the amount and paying off the amount for their dues.

Already farming community was affected by scanty rain fall. The farm produce could not yield minimum supportive price. Now, those who has not received the financial assistance are left in lurch. Leaders of farmers association also appeal the officials to take necessary steps to bail out the farming community.