Hyderabad: State Agriculture Minister Tummala Nageswara Rao directed officials to strictly implement the Praja Palana programme 99-day action plan across Telangana.
He issued the directions during a video conference. Irrigation Minister Uttam Kumar Reddy and Chief Secretary Ramakrishna Rao also attended. Meanwhile, district collectors and senior officials joined the meeting.
During the Praja Palana programme review, the minister stressed effective execution of all components. He also announced that Rythu Utsavams would run from May 4 to May 9. These events aim to improve awareness of scientific farming methods.
On May 4, officials will collect soil samples. They will then provide farmers with crop guidance based on test results. On May 5, officials will promote horticulture and oilseed cultivation. In addition, they will encourage crop diversification.
On May 6, officials will conduct awareness sessions on crop loans and market facilities. The next day, they will demonstrate agricultural drones and explain solar schemes. On May 8, departments will focus on livestock and fisheries development. Finally, canal cleaning drives will take place on May 9.
The minister said paddy production may reach 141 lakh metric tonnes this season. Accordingly, the government set a procurement target of 90 lakh metric tonnes. He also noted that 8,575 procurement centres are operating statewide.
He added that the government has already paid Rs. 581.72 crore to farmers under minimum support price. Further, he directed officials to monitor logistics, transport, and labour availability. At the same time, they must track weather conditions to avoid delays.
Praja Palana programme review covers NEET and employment
The Praja Palana programme review also addressed employment guarantee works. The minister directed officials to improve labour mobilisation. He also asked them to inspect underperforming areas and ensure work availability in all villages.
He said authorities must provide basic facilities such as drinking water and first aid at worksites. Additionally, each gram panchayat must list at least 20 labour-intensive works. Officials should deploy supervisory staff to monitor attendance and productivity.
On grievance redressal, he said authorities must resolve Prajavani applications within 30 days. They should also issue receipts and update details on the portal. Moreover, officials must arrange facilities for visitors at submission centres.
The minister also reviewed NEET exam arrangements scheduled this month. He directed officials to strictly follow guidelines. They will use biometric attendance, while authorities will not allow digital devices inside centres.
He instructed officials to secure question paper transport. They must install CCTV cameras at centres. In addition, authorities should arrange medical staff and ensure uninterrupted power supply. They must also provide facilities for differently-abled candidates.
Separately, officials said the first phase of Census 2027 house listing will run from May 11 to June 9. Meanwhile, self-enumeration will continue until May 10. Authorities will conduct public awareness campaigns to support the process.