The Hindu Business Line : Top priority for irrigation, farmers' issues: YSR

The Chief Minister, Dr Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy, speaks at the Collectors Conference on Friday in Hyderabad. The Chief Secretary, Mr Mohan Kanda, and the Revenue Minister, Mr D. Prasada Rao, are also seen. - H. Satish

Hyderabad , July 22

THE State Government will strive to bring in overall development in rural areas with special thrust on irrigation projects.

Addressing the two-day District Collectors' Conference at Jubilee Hall today, the Chief Minister, Dr Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy, directed the administration to expedite land acquisition work for irrigation projects aimed at harnessing the potential of river waters.

Dr Reddy said that the State had drawn up plans to invest about Rs 26,000 crore in irrigation projects and has secured the Planning Commission's approval for these projects.

These projects are aimed at harnessing the potential of the Godavari waters and help spread the reach of irrigation, thereby cultivating dry tracts. This drive, he said, would ensure all-round prosperity.

The district administration has been directed to see that the farmers approach banks and financial institutions for loans as opposed to traditional moneylenders.

This would significantly change the money flow in the rural areas. However, they need to ensure that there is timely repayment.

Though such a shift to nationalised banks would be tough and gradual, this will ensure that they are not fleeced by moneylenders, he said.

Referring to the success of the `Pavala Waddi' scheme (25 per cent interest scheme) for self-help groups (SHGs), Dr Reddy said this has brought about a significant change in the way SHGs function.

The scheme has grown significantly over the last three years from about Rs 350 crore to Rs 1,250 crore last year and to Rs 2,400 crore this year, indicating the strong movement towards the SHGs.

Calling upon the Collectors to step up efforts of land distribution, particularly for those in tribal areas, Dr Reddy favoured a time-bound plan to address their issues.

With regard to ration cards, which has become an important issue in the State, Dr Reddy said that the Collectors' task was cut out in terms of weeding out bogus cards while ensuring that fresh cards are given to the needy.

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