During a high-level DISHA meeting, Kurnool MP B. Nagaraju emphasized the urgent need to implement central schemes, addressing agricultural distress and healthcare concerns.

Key Takeaways

  • MP B. Nagaraju chaired the DISHA meeting to monitor central scheme progress.
  • Concerns raised over El Niño-induced low rainfall affecting the agricultural sector.
  • Proposal for free cancer screening camps by Basavatarakam Cancer Institute.
  • Emphasis on Jal Jeevan Mission and rural employment expansion.

Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh: In a decisive move to accelerate regional development, Kurnool Member of Parliament B. Nagaraju has called for the more effective and rapid implementation of the Union Government's welfare and developmental initiatives. Presiding over the District Development Coordination and Monitoring Committee (DISHA) meeting at the Collectorate on Wednesday, the MP reviewed the progress of various centrally sponsored schemes in the presence of District Collector A. Siri, ZP Chairperson Errabothula Papireddy, and other senior officials.

Addressing Agricultural Vulnerability

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the looming agricultural crisis. MP Nagaraju expressed grave concern regarding the erratic rainfall patterns attributed to El Niño conditions, which have left the district's farmers in a precarious position. He specifically highlighted the economic backwardness of the western rain-shadow regions of Kurnool. To mitigate this, he urged officials to draft robust contingency plans to ensure adequate irrigation water for the upcoming Rabi crop and to implement targeted interventions to bolster rural livelihoods and farm incomes.

Healthcare and Infrastructure Priorities

In a significant development for public health, the MP addressed the rising incidence of cancer in the district. He stressed the necessity of expanding diagnostic capabilities and strengthening early detection protocols. Notably, he shared that the Hyderabad-based Basavatarakam Cancer Institute has extended an offer to conduct free cancer screening camps throughout the Kurnool district, a move that could prove life-saving for the underprivileged.

Infrastructure and Rural Development

The MP also pivoted towards critical infrastructure needs, directing officials to prioritize the Jal Jeevan Mission to ensure safe drinking water for all households. He further ordered the immediate repair of damaged roads in the Alur, Billekallu, and Aspari mandals. Regarding rural economic stability, he directed the administration to increase job card coverage under employment guarantee schemes and to expedite the clearance of all pending bills to prevent administrative bottlenecks. Furthermore, he emphasized the strengthening of market infrastructure in the Billekallu region and the execution of major irrigation works under the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY).