Revanth Reddy govt releases Rythu Bharosa ahead of local body elections

The Telangana government, led by Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, has finally begun disbursing funds under the Rythu Bharosa scheme, a flagship farmer welfare program, starting today, June 17, 2025. The move comes after significant delays and issues with the previous two installments, which had left farmers across the state frustrated due to the government’s failure to honor its commitments in a timely and effective manner.

Rythu Bharosa in place of Rythu Bandhu

The Rythu Bharosa scheme, which replaced the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) government’s Rythu Bandhu program, promises financial assistance of Rs 12,000 per acre annually to eligible farmers to support agricultural investments. However, the Congress government faced criticism for inconsistent disbursals since its launch in January 2025. Farmers reported that the first two installments were either delayed or incomplete, with many eligible beneficiaries left out due to administrative bottlenecks and verification issues.

The delays were attributed to the state’s financial crisis, according to Chief Minister Revanth Reddy. He accused the BRS of pushing Telangana into a “debt trap,” claiming that the state’s economic recovery would take decades. Despite these challenges, the Congress government has now committed to crediting Rs 9,000 crore to the bank accounts of over 70 lakh farmers within nine days, covering 1.49 crore acres for the Kharif 2025 season.

On the first day, Rs 2,350 crore was released to 41.25 lakh farmers owning up to two acres.

Aimed for local body elections

Speaking at the Rythu Nestham program in Hyderabad, CM Revanth Reddy emphasized the government’s resolve to support farmers, stating, “Despite challenges, we are ensuring Rythu Bharosa funds reach farmers so they do not suffer.” He also announced the removal of the previous ceiling on land holdings, extending benefits to all farmers.

The disbursal, timed ahead of speculated local body elections, has drawn mixed reactions. While farmers have welcomed the release of funds, many remain skeptical due to past unfulfilled promises

While the release of Rs 9,000 crore marks a significant step, farmers are cautiously optimistic, hoping the government will maintain consistency in future disbursals to rebuild trust and alleviate their financial burdens. The success of this initiative will likely play a crucial role in shaping public sentiment ahead of the upcoming local body election.