Hans News Service Hanumakonda

CPI State Assistant Secretary Takkalpalli Srinivasa Rao has demanded that the Centre immediately sanction Rs 20,000 crore in drought relief to Telangana and announce a special financial package to address the severe drought conditions in the state.

The CPI District Committee organised a protest at the Hanumakonda District Collectorate on Wednesday, condemning the Centre’s alleged discriminatory attitude towards Telangana.

Addressing the gathering, Srinivasa Rao demanded free or subsidised distribution of 14 essential commodities through ration shops during the drought period. He called for compensation of Rs 30,000 per acre for paddy and Rs 50,000 for cotton and maize crops affected by crop failure.

He also urged authorities to assess losses at field level, identify tenant farmers and extend government assistance. CPI leaders and activists participated in the protest.