Harish Rao Accuses Telangana Government of Neglecting Farmers Amid Drought and Power Shortages

BRS MLA and former minister Harish Rao has strongly criticised the Congress government in Telangana over what he described as its failure to address farmers’ problems amid drought concerns, electricity shortages and inadequate irrigation. Speaking at a press conference at Telangana Bhavan, he questioned the repeated cancellation and rescheduling of a proposed video conference with farmers. He said farmers had been asked to gather at Rythu Vedikas to hear the Chief Minister, but the programme was repeatedly changed. Rao also questioned the government’s preparedness for the possible effects of El Niño, arguing that warnings had been available for months. He demanded clarity on the government’s plans for farmers and agricultural labourers if crop cultivation becomes difficult.

Rao alleged that poor coal management, inadequate electricity procurement planning and the underuse of irrigation projects had worsened the situation. He cited the Devadula, Kaleshwaram-related pumping facilities, Kalwakurthy and Palamuru projects, as well as the Singur reservoir, while questioning the government’s handling of water resources. He also raised concerns about farmers facing legal action for attempting to protect their crops, delays in crop insurance payments and the alleged allocation of water to liquor production while communities face drinking and irrigation shortages. These claims reflect the BRS leader’s criticism and have not been independently verified here. Rao demanded reliable power supply, the operation of available irrigation infrastructure, timely release of farmer welfare benefits, crop insurance payments and alternative employment for agricultural labourers. He urged the government to announce a comprehensive action plan instead of advising farmers against sowing crops.