YSR Yantra Seva Pathakam: 3,800 tractors distributed to farmers in Guntur

Guntur: Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y.S Jagan Mohan Reddy flagged off the distribution of tractors and combine harvesters under YSR Yantra Seva Pathakam in Guntur. A total of 3,800 tractors and 1,140 other farm machinery were distributed at Rythu Bharosa Kendra-level custom hiring centers (RBKs).

Another 320 combine harvesters will be distributed to 320 cluster-level CHCs. Apart from this, the government has deposited Rs. 175.61 crore subsidy to the accounts of 5,260 famers' groups through DBT.

The state aims to establish a total of 10,750 YSR Yantra Seva Kendras (CHCs).

"With 10,750 Rythu Bharosa Kendras (RBKs) conceptualized to support farmers, now these CHCs will ensure that farmers receive more yields with less investment. YSR Yantra Seva Pathakam initiative was launched to overcome the shortage of farm machinery and to provide farmers with the much-needed support in renting machinery at affordable prices which will help reduce the input cost and in turn provide more income to farmers. These farm-related machinery will be available at respective village RBK-level CHCs," Jagan said.

So far, the government has distributed farm equipment worth Rs. 691 crores to 6,781 RBK-level and 391 cluster-level CHCs across the state. The government has allotted a toll-free number – 155251 – for any complaint/inquiry at the Yantra Seva Kendras.

Initiatives to help farmers

· CHCs will be maintained by farmer groups at their respective RBKs.

· Each CHC will be filled with farm machinery worth Rs. 15 lakhs.

· Selection of farm machinery by farmers' groups depending on the crop pattern of the village and local demand for hiring.

· Display of CHC details like machinery details, affordable hiring charges, and contact details at RBKS.

· Supply of farm machinery and farming tools at a 40% discount to farmer groups, thereby reducing the investment burden on farmers.

· To further reduce the burden, the government is also providing 50% loan to farmers' groups from APCOB/DCCB at lower interest rates.

· The government has allocated Rs. 806 crores as subsidy for YSR Yantra Seva Pathakam.

· Supply of drones to CHCs in 2,000 villages to spray fertilizers and pesticides in farms thereby reducing input costs to farmers.

· Around 1,615 cluster-level CHCs and combine harvesters worth Rs. 25 lakh each in 20 rice-cultivating districts with a total expenditure of Rs. 2,016 crores.