Tenant farmers neglected by coalition government, alleges Farmers’ Association

VIJAYAWADA

The Andhra Pradesh Tenant Farmers’ Association on Wednesday accused the State government of neglecting tenant farmers and failing to fulfil election promises, even after being 22 months in power.

Association State general secretary P. Jamalaiah alleged that none of the assurances made to tenant farmers have been implemented and demanded the immediate introduction of a new tenancy law to safeguard their rights and livelihoods.

Responding to a Statewide call, protests were held at district Collectorates, with memorandums submitted to officials. In Vijayawada, a demonstration took place at the Collector’s office, where a representation was handed over to District Revenue Officer M. Lakshmi Narasimha.

Addressing the gathering, Mr. Jamalaiah called for simplified issuance of identity cards to tenant farmers from April 1 and demanded crop loans up to ₹2 lakh without surety, in line with RBI norms. He criticised the government for allocating only ₹1,500 crore to tenant farmers while extending over ₹2 lakh crore in crop loans, alleging that landowners benefit more than actual cultivators.

He said tenant farmers have suffered severe losses due to natural calamities and pest attacks, while trader syndicates exploit them with low prices. Citing distress, he claimed over 300 farmer suicides, mostly tenant farmers, and alleged lack of ex gratia support to affected families.

The association urged the government to ensure fair procurement, protect farmers from lenders, and establish a monitoring system for welfare schemes.