- Loan Waiver Delays and Urea Shortage Fuel Discontent Against Government
- Concerns over Internal Sabotage
Article Today, Hyderabad:
Questions are being raised in political circles about whether administrative lapses are weakening the credibility of the Revanth Reddy government. Analysts point to the handling of the loan waiver scheme and the ongoing shortage of urea as examples of failures that have created unrest among farmers. Allegations have emerged that a section of agriculture officials are acting in ways that tarnish the image of the Chief Minister. Reports from Secretariat sources suggest that some officials, in collusion with former leaders, may be contributing to the crisis.
Loan Waiver Lacks Planning
The government had promised waiver of crop loans up to ₹2 lakh. While it claims to have cleared ₹31,000 crore, a large number of farmers remain dissatisfied. The disbursal was marred by poor planning, leading to confusion and resentment in rural areas. Opposition parties have used these lapses to target the government, arguing that officials failed to frame proper guidelines for timely distribution. Political observers say the mismanagement has eroded the goodwill expected from such a major financial commitment.
Urea Distribution Faces Gaps
The ongoing kharif season has witnessed severe distress among farmers over shortage of urea. Though the Centre allotted 9.8 lakh metric tonnes, there is still a shortfall of nearly 3 lakh tonnes in the State. Farmers have queued up day and night at cooperative outlets, but supply has remained uneven. Allegations of diversion into black markets have surfaced, while enforcement action appears limited. Critics say the agriculture department and Markfed failed to devise a district-wise distribution plan and ignored calls to appoint special officers to oversee the crisis.
Political Implications for the Ruling Party
The crisis comes at a sensitive time, with local body elections approaching. The government is already facing delays in issuing the notification due to the pending 42 per cent BC reservation bill, which is awaiting central clearance. While the Chief Minister has accused the Centre of creating hurdles, within the State there is unease over the growing anger in villages. Senior party leaders fear the ruling party could face serious setbacks if polls are conducted under the present circumstances.
Mounting Pressure on the Government
The twin challenges of loan waiver discontent and fertiliser shortage have combined to create pressure on the administration. Farmers’ anger, coupled with opposition attacks, has raised questions about the efficiency of the agriculture department. Observers note that the State government must quickly restore confidence among farmers to prevent political damage in the months ahead.
