Tribals respond to Rythu Bandhu

The large turnout of tribal farmers in the cheque distribution programme for forest land holders under the Forest Rights Act at Ginnera village in Indervelli mandal of Adilabad district on Monday showed a massive response to their inclusion in the Rythu Bandhu scheme. These farmers were not eligible for the investment support of the government but the latter relented after pressure mounted through representations.

The programme was launched by Forest Minister Jogu Ramanna in the presence of Khanapur MLA A. Rekha Naik, Collector D. Divya and Project Officer of Utnoor Integrated Tribal Development Agency, S. Krishna Aditya. The Minister assured the tribals that those who were left out in the survey a decade back to examine the claims would be given rights under the relevant Act after due survey.

Ms. Divya said lands of farmers would be developed in addition to the sanctioned fruit orchards. She suggested the farmers rotate crops to avoid pestilence. The ITDA Project Officer said succession of rights to lands under the Forest Rights Act would be done in the case of those beneficiaries who have died since the implementation of the Act began. A total of 408 farmers were handed over cheques.