CPI(M) seeks comprehensive relief package for drought-hit farmers in Andhra Pradesh

The CPI(M) has demanded that the government immediately declare drought-affected areas and announce a comprehensive relief package for farmers, tenant farmers, agricultural workers and other rural communities.

A State-level team of the party has visited more than 60 mandals and 200 villages in 12 districts between September 16 and 24 to assess drought conditions.

Farmers reported severe crop losses, drying tanks, falling groundwater levels, drinking water shortages and acute fodder scarcity, the party leaders told the media in Vijayawada on Thursday.

They demanded that drought be declared a national calamity and ₹1 lakh crore released as relief. They demanded compensation of ₹40,000 an acre for farmers and tenant farmers who suffered crop losses and ₹15,000 an acre for farmers unable to sow. The party also sought input subsidy, crop insurance compensation, loan waivers and reimbursement of advance lease amounts paid by tenant farmers.