Minister Kandula Durgesh, along with District Collector P. Prasanthi and MLA Bathula Balaramakrishna, launched the Panta Sanjeevini Farm Ponds program in Tokada village, Rajanagaram constituency, on Saturday. The program, initiated under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (NREGS), focuses on storing rainwater and improving irrigation facilities.
Minister Kandula Durgesh stated that the coalition government is committed to supporting farmers and ensuring water security for agriculture. He emphasized that water ponds will prevent irrigation shortages, recharge groundwater, and enhance crop productivity. He also noted that farmers can utilize the stored water for dairying and growing vegetables. The government, through NREGS, will cover the cost of pond construction, including materials and labor.
Collector P. Prasanthi highlighted that the State Panchayat Raj Department has initiated the Panta Sanjeevini and Pantakunta programs across the state. She urged small and medium farmers to take advantage of the scheme, which includes financial assistance of ₹44,000 per farm pond. The government will also provide three years of maintenance support, water supply assistance, and fruit seedlings for eligible farmers.
MLA Bathula Balaramakrishna urged every farmer to participate in the program, emphasizing that rainwater conservation is key to sustainable agriculture. As part of the event, Minister Durgesh, the MLA, and the Collector handed over a housing loan check to a beneficiary in Tokada village.
Local public representatives, officials, and farmers participated in the program.
