Karimnagar: The Transport and BC Welfare Minister, Ponnam Prabhakar, announced that the State government has forgiven loans amounting to Rs 1.50 lakh in two installments. He advised that if any loan waivers are still pending, farmers should consult the agricultural officials for assistance.
The minister was speaking at an awareness conference on Agricultural Subsidy Sector Schemes. The event took place at Baswapur Village Rythu Vedika in Koheda mandal, Karimnagar district, on Friday. During his speech, Prabhakar explained that anyone not receiving 200 units of free electricity should link their Aadhaar at Prajapalan Seva Sevakendras to avail the subsidy. He also encouraged farmers to plant oil palm, noting that it provides a long-term yield.
Prabhakar suggested that farmers consider growing commercial crops like dragon fruit and mulberry trees, which are suitable for silk production. He mentioned that the government offers subsidies, and farmers can earn between Rs 4 to 5 lakhs annually if they cultivate these crops in 2 acres of land.
Through the National Live Stock Mission, farmers can access loans ranging from Rs 20 to 1 crore with a 50 percent subsidy for raising livestock such as sheep, chickens, goats, and grass. A specific loan of Rs 50 lakh is available, with a 50 percent subsidy, for those interested in raising backyard chickens. Additionally, 12 types of orchards can be developed under the Employment Guarantee Scheme (EGS).
If farmers agree, the government will also construct roads to their fields to improve accessibility. Under the Indira Women’s Shakti Programme, a poultry rearing and food processing unit can be established with a 30 percent subsidy. Moreover, a milk cooling center can be set up to support dairy farmers, as explained by the minister.
