Swift Summary:
- YSRCP president Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy criticized the NDA-led government in Andhra Pradesh for it’s handling of farmers’ issues, asserting repressive measures were used against protesting mango farmers.
- He accused the government of refusing to provide minimum support prices (MSP) for crops, specifically mangoes grown by over 76,000 farmers across 2.2 lakh acres.
- Government announced rates of ₹4/kg and aimed for factories to pay ₹8/kg, while JD(S) leader H.D. Kumaraswamy reportedly secured a Central assurance of ₹16/kg.
- Allegations made about delays in pulp factory purchases benefiting corporate entities like Galla Factory and Srini Foods.
- Mr. Reddy compared this situation unfavorably to his management’s agricultural track record, including crop procurement worth ₹7,800 crore and implementation of schemes like Annadata Sukhibhava with a Price Stabilisation Fund worth ₹3,000 crore.
- He pointed out gaps such as no crop subsidies or insurance and delayed farmer payments under current governance.
Indian Opinion Analysis:
This news highlights deep concerns regarding the agricultural policies impacting Andhra Pradesh’s mango farmers amidst alleged mismanagement by state authorities. The accusations surrounding inadequate MSP rates strike at the core of rural livelihoods dependent on farming output. While farming crises are not unique to any specific leadership regime in India, unresolved claims of market manipulation or favoritism toward corporate interests could dampen public trust.
Former Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy’s assertions evoke broader debates around effective governance in rural sectors-such as timely agri-policy implementation and offering financial stability funds-as tools against volatile price crashes. Immediate attention from policymakers is critical both morally and economically; agriculture plays a central role within India’s GDP composition and sustenance framework.
Read More: The Hindu