CPI demands special compensation for rain-hit Andhra farmers

The Communist Party of India has called for special compensation for farmers whose crops were damaged by rain in Andhra Pradesh, The Hindu reports. The party’s State secretary, Eswaraiah, demanded a comprehensive survey of crop losses, with the village used as the unit for assessment. He said the approach was needed to establish the extent of damage across affected areas.

The crops identified as suffering damage include paddy, maize, banana, papaya and vegetables. The report says losses have been recorded in several districts but does not name them or provide an estimate of the affected acreage. The CPI’s demand is for compensation in addition to an assessment of the losses.

The supplied material does not state whether the state government has announced relief, how applications would be made or what level of payment the party is seeking. No figures for the rainfall, crop damage or number of affected farmers were included. The available report contains the party’s call for a village-based survey and special assistance but no government response.