YSRCP Raises Rayalaseema Drought Concerns, Questions Horticulture Hub

YSRCP leaders Kurasala Kannababu and Gadikota Srikanth Reddy have accused the Andhra Pradesh coalition government of neglecting drought-hit farmers in Rayalaseema. They questioned the focus on publicity around the proposed Rs 1 lakh crore Horticulture Hub.

Kannababu said the region was facing severe drought. He pointed to 186 of 388 drought-declared mandals being in Rayalaseema. He also cited rainfall deficits of up to 63.1 per cent in some districts between June and September.

He alleged that nearly seven lakh borewells had dried up by August, while mango and citrus orchards were struggling. Srikanth Reddy also alleged that farmers lacked adequate support despite the rainfall shortage.

The YSRCP leaders demanded a fresh review of drought-hit mandals, loan rescheduling, crop insurance, input support and compensation for damaged and unsown crops. They also called for a comprehensive drought-relief programme.