In a significant move to empower the farming community, the Telangana government officially rolled out its ambitious Agricultural Mechanisation Scheme on Friday. The initiative, aimed at easing the financial burden on farmers, provides essential machinery like tractors and paddy-harvesting equipment at heavily subsidised rates.
Ministers Inaugurate Scheme in Bhadradri Kothagudem
The launch event was held in Aswaraopeta, located in the Bhadradri Kothagudem district. The programme was inaugurated by Agriculture Minister Tummala Nageswar Rao alongside Irrigation Minister Uttam Kumar Reddy. Their presence underscored the state government's commitment to revitalising the agricultural sector through direct intervention.
Subsidy Structure and Financial Outlay
The state has allocated a substantial ₹100 crore for this scheme. The funds will be used to supply key farm equipment including tractors, paddy harvesters, and sprayers to farmers at significantly reduced costs. A standout feature of the scheme is its progressive subsidy structure designed to support women in agriculture.
Women farmers will receive a generous 50% subsidy on the machinery, while other eligible farmers will benefit from a 40% subsidy. This differential subsidy aims to promote gender inclusivity and provide stronger support to women engaged in farming.
Revival of a Crucial Initiative
Officials noted that a similar scheme had been operational in the past but was discontinued by the previous state government. The current Congress-led administration has revived and relaunched the programme, believing it addresses core challenges in modern agriculture.
The government's rationale is that easy access to modern agricultural machinery is no longer a luxury but a necessity. It is seen as essential to help farmers cope with the dual challenges of steadily rising input costs and acute labour shortages. By reducing dependence on manual labour and increasing efficiency, the scheme is designed to help farmers lower their overall investment while boosting productivity and income.
The initiative has a wide-reaching goal and is expected to benefit approximately 1,30,000 farmers across various districts of Telangana. By putting advanced tools in the hands of cultivators, the state hopes to enhance farm profitability and contribute to long-term agricultural sustainability.
