The Bharat Rashtra Samithi has demanded an immediate action plan for Telangana farmers, citing alleged failures in preparing for El Niño risks, managing water shortages and ensuring reliable electricity for irrigation. The opposition party also sought clarity on welfare payments, crop incentives and alternative livelihoods for farm workers.
BRS deputy floor leader T Harish Rao raised the demands at a press conference at Telangana Bhavan on Monday. He questioned the handling of a proposed video conference with farmers, saying it had been repeatedly cancelled after officials asked farmers to assemble at Rythu Vedikas. He also criticised the absence of the Chief Minister and the shifting schedule of the meeting.
Harish Rao alleged that the Congress government had not explained what preventive measures it had taken despite warnings about El Niño from global scientists and Indian agencies. He said farmers needed clarity on whether they should cultivate during the upcoming Yasangi, or Rabi, season and what support would be available if they were advised against sowing.
The BRS leader sought details on the release of Rythu Bharosa funds, a proposed bonus of Rs 500 per quintal for paddy and additional financial assistance for farmers facing difficulties. He also demanded action on delayed payments under Rythu Bandhu and Rythu Bima, saying families of farmers who had died since August were awaiting assistance. He questioned the delay in implementing Indiramma Atmeeya Bharosa for eligible poor families.
Water and power availability formed a central part of the opposition’s criticism. Harish Rao alleged that the government was failing to lift river water and provide adequate supplies for irrigation, drinking water and industrial use. He questioned why the Devadula, Kannepalli and Kalwakurthy lift irrigation projects were not being fully utilised despite water being available.
He also attributed erratic electricity supply to inadequate coal stocks and the failure to secure power purchase agreements in advance. While claiming that the government was willing to buy power at Rs 10–15 per unit, he questioned why agreements had not been signed earlier. According to his allegations, unreliable supply had left farmers’ crops drying up.
The BRS leader sought accountability over delayed repairs at Singur, saying reservoir storage had fallen sharply. He alleged that industries, including liquor manufacturers, were being prioritised over drinking water and irrigation. He also questioned cases filed against farmers who allegedly drew water from the Jurala project to protect their crops.
Harish Rao cited notices to BHEL, BDL and IIT-Hyderabad stating that water supplies could not continue at current levels. He demanded reliable power, better use of available water, release of pending farmer-support payments and alternative livelihood assistance for agricultural labourers. The supplied report does not include a response from the Telangana government to the allegations.
