Deputy CM Bhatti Vikramarka announces key updates to Rythu Bandhu

Hyderabad: Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka made a significant announcement regarding the Rythu Bandhu scheme. He clarified that they have decided not to extend the Rythu Bandhu benefits to lands like hills, hillocks, and roads. Speaking to the media on Saturday, he mentioned that the scheme is currently being implemented based on old data, providing benefits to those with up to 4 acres of land. He stated that soon, the scheme would be extended to those owning up to 5 acres of land and emphasized that Rythu Bandhu benefits would be provided only to those who are actively engaged in farming. He also mentioned that the state has no plans to install meters for agricultural pumps.

Vikramarka asserted that the state treats every woman as Mahalakshmi, showing them respect and accusing the previous government of neglecting self-help groups. He announced the launch of the Indiramma Housing Scheme on the 11th of this month and the initiation of interest-free loans for women under the name 'Indira Kranti' from the 12th. He disclosed plans to abandon some electricity projects and the Kaleshwaram project as non-essential assets, expressing distress over the misinformation being spread about the Gruhalakshmi scheme.

The Deputy Chief Minister promised not to increase electricity charges, stating that despite higher electricity consumption than during the previous BRS government's tenure, they are ready to meet the demand. He assured that they are prepared for a supply of 16,000 megawatts of electricity during April and May and announced plans to introduce a new electricity policy soon. He emphasized the planned, hassle-free progress in electricity supply, including the use of solar power, and announced that under the Gruhalakshmi scheme, up to 200 units of free electricity are being provided, with 40,33,702 zero bills issued so far.