1.55 lakh farm ponds to be completed by May under NREGS : Pawan

Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan announced that as part of the National Employment Guarantee Scheme (NREGS), the State aims to complete 1.55 lakh farm ponds by May. He stated that once these ponds are filled during the rainy season, they will store up to one TMC of water, addressing water scarcity issues, particularly in Rayalaseema.

Kalyan performed bhoomi puja for a farm pond in the field of farmer Rajanna in Pudicherla village, Orvakal mandal, marking the launch of the large-scale initiative. Speaking at a public meeting in Pudicherla, he emphasized that Andhra Pradesh is gaining national attention for its development efforts.

Reaffirming the strength of the NDA alliance, Kalyan highlighted that 164 out of 175 Assembly seats were allotted to the coalition and that the alliance aims to secure all 21 Lok Sabha seats from the state. He credited Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu’s leadership for the success of the recently held grama festivals across Andhra Pradesh.

Addressing water issues in Rayalaseema, Kalyan underscored the urgent need for water conservation measures, pointing out that despite heavy rains, the region lacks adequate storage facilities. He reiterated the government’s commitment to completing the targeted 1.55 lakh farm ponds before the monsoon. Citing historical references, he expressed hope that Rayalaseema would thrive like the legendary land of gems envisioned by Sri Krishnadevaraya.

Kalyan also detailed the government’s administrative reforms to strengthen the Panchayati Raj system and enhance rural development under NREGS. He announced that 97.44 lakh individuals from 52.92 lakh families in the state have received employment under the scheme, with Rs 9.5 crore spent so far.

Contrasting the NDA-led government’s performance with that of the previous administration, Kalyan highlighted that while only 4,000 roads were built in five years under the former government, nearly the same length- 4,000 km- has been constructed in just eight months under the current administration. He noted that Rs 1,600 crore has been invested in road infrastructure, particularly in tribal villages, where essential services like electricity and drinking water have also been provided.

Stressing the significance of rural employment and infrastructure, Kalyan reaffirmed the NDA coalition government’s commitment to ensuring economic stability and sustainable development across the State.