Mattampally (Suryapet): On Monday, farmers gathered in protest in front of the Mathampalli mandal agricultural office when they found it closed until noon. They had arrived early for help with Rythu Bharosa, seed distribution, and passbook updates but were frustrated by the absence of staff.
When they tried contacting officials, the farmers received unsatisfactory responses, which made them more upset. Agriculture extension officers (AEOs) Shravyanjali and Triveni later arrived, explaining they lost the office key while in an auto-rickshaw.
The farmers argued that the office should have opened in the morning using spare keys or other means. They demanded the office open immediately. With their help, the AEOs broke the lock and restarted office work. Surprisingly, agricultural officer Srinivas did not come to the office during the commotion. Instead, he sent a press note via the office WhatsApp group, informing farmers that fertilizers and seeds were available at the PACS office at subsidized rates.
Local women, tribal farmers, and others criticized the agriculture department for neglecting duties at the start of the farming season. They called on higher authorities to investigate the matter and take necessary action.
