Sri Sathya Sai district announces subsidised orchard water deliveries

Sri Sathya Sai district has announced water deliveries for orchards threatened by drying borewells. Andhra Pradesh authorities will cover 80% of water costs, district horticulture officer G. Chandrasekhar said.

Each tanker is to carry 5,000 litres at a fixed cost of 780 rupees. Assistance varies by crop, with a maximum of five acres eligible per farming family.

Sweet lime orchards are allocated 20,000 litres weekly, for up to four irrigations a month. The maximum monthly subsidy is 9,984 rupees per acre. Mango orchards are allocated 15,000 litres every ten days, for up to three irrigations a month, with a subsidy of up to 5,616 rupees per acre.

Arecanut plantations are allocated 25,000 litres weekly, for up to four irrigations a month. Their maximum subsidy is 12,480 rupees per acre per month.

Farmers are to apply through their nearest Rythu Bharosa Kendra support centre. Local horticulture officers will forward applications to the district officer for approval and a work order.

Chandrasekhar said payment details would be compiled every 15 days. After a cycle of four tanker trips, the next tranche would follow a seven-day gap. Tankers are to be fitted with GPS, with monitoring through a dedicated app beginning after field verification.