How is Telangana Enhancing Cultivation for 2.30 Lakh Tribal Farmers?
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Synopsis
Discover how the Telangana government is revolutionizing agriculture for over 2.30 lakh tribal farmers through the groundbreaking Indira Soura Giri Jala Vikasam scheme. This initiative promises to transform livelihoods by converting vast tracts of land into cultivable fields, ensuring sustainable income and improved living standards for tribal communities.
Key Takeaways
- Transformative scheme for tribal farmers.
- 6.69 lakh acres to be made cultivable.
- Rs 12,600 crore investment over five years.
- Free solar pump sets for farmers.
- Support for self-employment among ST youth.
Hyderabad, May 19 (NationPress) The Telangana government has officially initiated a new scheme aimed at improving the livelihood and income of tribal families in the state.
Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy unveiled the "Indira Soura Giri Jala Vikasam" scheme in Macharam, located in Nagarkurnool district.
Under this initiative, more than 2.30 lakh tribal farmers will receive assistance to convert 6.69 lakh acres of land into cultivable areas, supported by a full subsidy.
The state will invest in solar-powered irrigation facilities, with an estimated budget of Rs 12,600 crore over the next five years.
During the launch, Chief Minister Reddy, joined by Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka and other ministers, introduced the Nallamalla declaration, emphasizing that this scheme will mark a transformative phase in tribal lives.
The government has recognized and allocated rights over forest land for 2,30,735 Scheduled Tribes covering an area of 6.69 lakh acres under the RoFR Act of 2006.
Responding to long-standing demands for irrigation, the Chief Minister decided on January 10 to offer solar pump irrigation to ST farmers with RoFR lands, ensuring 100% grants through a special saturation scheme featuring drip irrigation and horticultural plantations.
This initiative is touted as the first of its kind in the nation, with the Congress government allocating budget provisions for irrigation on RoFR lands.
Aligned with this vision, the "Indira Soura Giri Jala Vikasam" scheme is designed to foster holistic growth of RoFR lands.
In Macharam village, this program will affect 44.5 acres of RoFR land belonging to 27 ST RoFR farmers. It includes comprehensive land development, installation of off-grid solar pump irrigation systems, and horticulture with drip irrigation.
The initiative will run for five years, from 2025-26 to 2029-30, in collaboration with the Forest, Energy, PR & RD, RWS, Ground Water, and Horticulture Departments.
This financial year, Rs 600 crore will be allocated to cover 27,184 acres, benefiting 10,000 farmers. For the subsequent four years, an annual budget of Rs 3,000 crore will be designated to irrigate 1.43 lakh acres, aiding 50,000 farmers.
The Chief Minister stated that farmers will be provided free pump sets, with beneficiaries receiving solar power motors within 100 days.
He also highlighted that the state has invested Rs 60,000 crore in farmer development and welfare to date.
Furthermore, it has been announced that housing will be provided under the Indiramma housing scheme for all Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG) families in a saturation approach.
Additionally, the government will extend financial aid to 1 lakh unemployed ST youth, offering a subsidy of Rs 1,000 crores for self-employment under the Rajiv Yuva Vikasam Scheme.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the Telangana government's proactive approach towards supporting tribal livelihoods. The Indira Soura Giri Jala Vikasam scheme is a promising initiative that not only empowers tribal farmers but also emphasizes sustainable agricultural practices. This program could serve as a model for similar endeavors across the country, fostering economic growth and self-sufficiency among marginalized communities.
NationPress
21/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Indira Soura Giri Jala Vikasam scheme?
It is a Telangana government initiative aimed at improving the livelihood and income of over 2.30 lakh tribal families by making 6.69 lakh acres cultivable with solar-powered irrigation.
How much financial assistance will be provided?
The government will invest Rs 12,600 crore over five years to support this initiative.
Who will benefit from this scheme?
More than 2.30 lakh tribal farmers will benefit, along with providing irrigation facilities and financial aid for self-employment.
What types of support will farmers receive?
Farmers will receive free pump sets and solar power motors to facilitate irrigation.
Is this the first initiative of its kind in India?
Yes, the state government has termed it the first of its kind in the country, focusing on RoFR lands.
