Hyderabad: Chief Minister Revanth Reddy initiated the farm loan waiver process during a video conference with farmers from 110 rythu vedikas across the state, held at the secretariat. In the first phase, loans up to Rs 1 lakh for farmers have been waived off, marking a significant step towards fulfilling the Congress party’s election promise.
Addressing the public, Chief Minister Revanth Reddy stated, “Today, we have deposited Rs 6,098 crore into the accounts of 11.50 lakh farmers, underscoring our commitment to agricultural welfare. This day marks a milestone in my political career.” Highlighting the delayed implementation of the loan waiver under previous administrations, Revanth Reddy affirmed, “For years, farmers awaited relief that never arrived. Now, with the passbook as the criterion, we are ensuring that those without ration cards are also included in the waiver process.”
Looking ahead, the government plans to extend the waiver to loans up to Rs 1.5 lakh in the first week of August, followed by further waivers up to Rs 2 lakh later in the month. The entire process is slated for completion by August, eliciting celebrations among farmers and Congress leaders statewide.
While the Congress lauds this move as unprecedented, the opposition, particularly the Bharatiya Raita Samithi (BRS), has raised concerns over the selection criteria for beneficiaries. Responding to criticisms, Chief Minister Revanth Reddy defended the government’s approach, emphasizing equitable distribution and transparency.
Reflecting on the significance of the occasion, Revanth Reddy acknowledged the role of Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi in championing Telangana’s statehood and agricultural reforms. He expressed gratitude to his cabinet colleagues and officials for their efforts in realizing the loan waiver promise.