The Annadata Sukhibhava Scheme aims to provide free bore wells to needy and eligible farmers to irrigate every acre of arable land. This initiative, under the “Super SIX” program, engages drilling contractors on a rate contract basis for each Parliament constituency. Here are the comprehensive guidelines for implementing this scheme.
Introduction to the Annadata Sukhibhava Scheme
The government has authorized the Commissioner of Panchayat Raj and Rural Development (PR&RD) to invite tenders for drilling bore wells on a rate contract basis. Each Parliament constituency will be equipped with one rig. The Commissioner has presented draft guidelines for implementing the “Annadata Sukhibhava Scheme – Free Bore Wells” program.
Mission of the Annadata Sukhibhava Scheme
The Navaratnalu initiative, launched by the government, includes nine welfare schemes aimed at improving living standards. The “Annadata Sukhibhava Scheme – Free Bore Wells” is designed to utilize groundwater resources effectively to enhance farmers’ livelihoods and boost the Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) in the primary sector.
Objectives of the Scheme
The government plans to drill free bore wells for small and marginal farmers in all 13 districts. This effort aims to optimize groundwater use to irrigate every acre of arable land. Integrated hydro-geological and geophysical surveys will be conducted to identify feasible drilling sites before commencing operations.
Eligibility Criteria for Farmers
To be eligible for the scheme, farmers must meet the following criteria:
- Own up to 5 acres of land without existing bore wells, tube wells, or open wells.
- Possess at least 2.5 acres of contiguous land. If not, a group of farmers with a combined contiguous land of 2.5 to 5 acres is eligible, sharing the bore well facility.
- The land must not be in any of the 1,094 overexploited revenue villages notified by the government.
Application Process
Farmers can apply by submitting a completed application form at the village secretariat or online, along with a copy of their Pattadar passbook and Aadhaar card. The village secretariat will scrutinize applications, and the Panchayat Secretary will conduct field verifications. Verified applications will be forwarded to the Mandal Parishad Development Officer (MPDO) and then consolidated and sent to the Project Director, District Water Management Agency (PD, DWMA) for further processing.
Feasibility and Sanction of Bore Wells
The PD, DWMA will send applications to the drilling contractor for hydrogeological and geophysical surveys to identify feasible sites. The contractor will work with qualified geologists to determine suitable drilling locations, adhering to the Andhra Pradesh Water, Land, and Trees Act, 2002 (APWALTA). Once feasible sites are identified, reports will be submitted to PD, DWMA, which will then prepare and communicate the list of eligible beneficiaries.
Drilling and Post-Drilling Procedures
After receiving confirmation, the contractor will drill bore wells at approved locations, conducting yield tests to ensure a minimum yield of 1,000 GPH (4,500 liters per hour). Digital photographs with geo-tags will document the process, and depth measurements will be recorded. The bore well completion report will include photographs, documents, and signatures of beneficiaries and officials.
Payment and Monitoring
Payment to contractors will be based on the success rate of drilled bore wells. A minimum success rate of 80% is required, with payments made only for successful wells. All bore wells, whether successful or failed, will be geo-tagged. In case of failure, the contractor must refill the bore well site before moving equipment.
Social and Environmental Responsibility
Post-drilling, a bore well completion report will be maintained. Construction of recharge pits or water harvesting structures is mandatory at successful sites, and social audits will be conducted for all bore wells drilled under this program.
State Government Renames YSR Rythu Bharosa to Annadata Sukhibhava Scheme
On Tuesday, the state government announced the renaming of the YSR Rythu Bharosa scheme to the Annadata Sukhibhava scheme. This change has been officially documented and reflected on the government website. The Annadata Sukhibhava scheme aims to enhance financial assistance to farmers in Andhra Pradesh.
Financial Assistance under Annadata Sukhibhava Scheme
Under the Annadata Sukhibhava scheme, farmers in Andhra Pradesh will receive an annual financial assistance of Rs 20,000. This amount includes Rs 6,000 provided by the Central government and Rs 14,000 from the State government. The renaming and restructuring of the scheme signify the government’s commitment to improving the welfare of farmers in the state.
Comparison with Previous Scheme
Previously, under the YSR Rythu Bharosa scheme, the financial assistance amounted to Rs 13,500 per annum. This consisted of Rs 6,000 from the Central government and Rs 7,500 from the State government. The new Annadata Sukhibhava scheme increases the total annual assistance by Rs 6,500, reflecting a substantial enhancement in support for farmers.
Aim and Impact
The Annadata Sukhibhava scheme is designed to provide greater financial security to farmers, enabling them to invest in their agricultural activities and improve their livelihoods. By increasing the financial assistance, the state government aims to address the challenges faced by farmers and ensure sustainable agricultural growth in Andhra Pradesh.
Government’s Commitment to Farmers
The renaming of the scheme and the increased financial support demonstrate the government’s dedication to the welfare of farmers. This initiative is part of broader efforts to enhance agricultural productivity and support the farming community in the state.
In conclusion, the Annadata Sukhibhava scheme represents a significant step forward in providing financial assistance to farmers in Andhra Pradesh. With the increased annual support, the scheme aims to strengthen the agricultural sector and improve the lives of farmers across the state.
Conclusion
The Commissioner of Panchayat Raj and Rural Development will oversee the implementation of the Annadata Sukhibhava Scheme, ensuring that every eligible farmer receives the benefits of free bore wells, thus improving agricultural productivity and livelihoods across the state.
