Telangana CM Revanth Reddy Highlights Farmer Welfare, Fine Rice Scheme Success

Hyderabad: Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy shared key insights during an informal interaction, focusing on farmer welfare, food security, and reforms in the public distribution system. The Chief Minister pointed out a major imbalance in the agricultural sector, stating that while producers in most industries decide the price of their goods, farmers are denied that right. He alleged that middlemen continue to exploit farmers by taking advantage of their needs. Reddy emphasized that the Congress government has historically worked to protect farmers’ rights, including introducing policies like the Minimum Support Price (MSP) framework. He also warned against illegal hoarding of essential commodities, calling it a serious offence that directly impacts public welfare. Highlighting past initiatives, he recalled that the subsidized rice scheme was first introduced during the tenure of Kotla Vijaya Bhaskara Reddy, but gained widespread popularity under N. T. Rama Rao. Over the decades, the ration rice distribution system has continued, primarily supplying coarse rice. However, the CM noted that coarse rice often went unused by beneficiaries and led to the rise of a black-market network that converted it into fine rice. Recognizing this inefficiency, the government launched the fine rice distribution scheme to ensure better consumption among the poor. To support this transition, the government is offering a ₹500 bonus per quintal to farmers cultivating fine paddy varieties. According to the CM, nearly 3.39 crore people—around 86% of Telangana’s population—are currently benefiting from the scheme, with expectations that coverage could reach 90% in the future. He also stated that ration cards have been issued to all eligible applicants, ensuring wider access to food security. The initiative has not only benefited farmers but also helped reduce black-market activities in rice distribution, thanks to strict monitoring by the civil supplies department. Marking one year of the fine rice distribution program, Reddy praised the efforts of ministers, officials, and legislators in successfully implementing the scheme. Looking ahead, the Chief Minister said the government’s next priority is to provide quality education and nutritious food to students. He also stressed the need to diversify agriculture by encouraging farmers to shift towards commercial crops and adopt crop rotation practices for sustainable growth.