YSR Congress Slams TDP's Handling of Andhra Pradesh Mango Crisis

In a heated critique, the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) has lambasted the Telugu Desam Party (TDP)-led Andhra Pradesh government over its handling of the ongoing mango crisis. Central to the YSRCP's allegations are claims of delayed intervention and insufficient support prices that have plunged mango farmers into severe distress.

M.V.S. Nagi Reddy, president of the YSRCP Farmers' Wing, took aim at Union Minister Pemmasani Chandrasekhar and State Agriculture Minister K. Atchannaidu, accusing them of issuing "misleading claims" regarding support for the struggling mango farmers. Reddy highlighted the timing discrepancy, noting that while Karnataka secured central procurement at Rs 16 per kg back in June, Andhra Pradesh only managed to obtain similar assistance by late July, after many farmers had already been forced to sell at low prices.

The YSRCP criticized the government's timing in announcing a Rs 14.9 per kg support price under the Market Intervention Scheme. With past market rates as high as Rs 25-Rs 29 per kg, the new measure benefits few, especially as actual procurement lags behind promises. Drawing parallels to previous agricultural mishaps, Reddy condemned the lack of support and purchasing delays, stressing the urgent need for redressal and immediate action to protect the livelihoods of mango farmers in the region.

(With inputs from agencies.)