Impact of Rythu Barossa Scheme on Agricultural Development in Telangana

Author(s): Dr. G Jagadishwar

Abstract:

This paper primarily explores the various welfare schemes introduced by the Government of Telangana to support the farming community and decrease farmers' suicides. Telangana, formed in 2014, is the youngest state in India and has an agrarian-based economy. Agriculture remains the predominant source of livelihood, with over 60% of the population directly or indirectly dependent on the sector. To strengthen and sustain this vital sector, the state government has implemented several farmer-centric initiatives such as Rythu Bandhu, Rythu Bheema, and Mission Kakatiya. These initiatives, along with investments in infrastructure and the adoption of modern agricultural technologies, have contributed significantly to transforming the state’s agricultural landscape. A key focus of the paper is the necessity for an agricultural investment support program similar to the Rythu Bandhu scheme present government renamed as Rythu Barossa. The scheme aims to break the cycle of rural indebtedness by providing direct financial support for agricultural investment. By addressing initial input costs, the scheme seeks to enhance agricultural productivity and ensure a stable income for farmers. The Rythu Bandhu scheme (Rythu Barossa), also known as the "Agriculture Investment Support Scheme," is India's first direct farmer investment support initiative and serves as a benchmark for farmer empowerment in the country. Approximately 6.5 million farmers received investment support under the Rythu Bandhu scheme during the 2022 rainy season, of which 73.63% were marginal farmers (holding less than 2.47 acres), and 17.70% were small farmers (holding between 2.48 and 4.94 acres).

keywords:

Pages: 181-187     |    2 View     |    0 Download