Tenant farmers in Telangana are cross as the state government fails to implement promises made under the “Rythu Bharosa” scheme. Despite assurances before the elections, tenant farmers remain excluded, raising concerns about the government’s commitment to agricultural welfare. Telangana has over 22 lakh tenant farmers, nearly 40% of cultivable land is under tenancy, and around 80% of farmer suicides involve tenant farmers.

During the last assembly elections, political parties had promised farmers loan waivers of up to Rs 2 lakh and annual support of Rs 15,000 per acre under Rythu Bharosa. Congress had further assured that tenant farmers would also receive Rs 15,000 per acre as part of the scheme. After coming to power, the government released approximately Rs 12,000 crore in two installments under Rythu Bharosa, benefiting more than 69 lakh farmers. However, tenant farmers were excluded from the promised support, resulting in estimated losses of around Rs 4,800 crore.

Tenant farmers have also criticised the government for ignoring the 2011 Tenant Farmers Act, which aimed to identify and support tenant farmers through gram sabhas. Even two years into office, the government has not taken any concrete steps to address the issue. Discussions on extending Rythu Bharosa benefits to tenant farmers have not taken place, raising doubts about the government’s priorities.

Rising land lease rates add further strain. In well-irrigated areas, rent now exceeds Rs 16,000 per acre, while less irrigated lands fetch Rs 10,000–12,000 per acre. Land rents have nearly tripled over the past decade—from Rs 3,000 per acre in 2010 to over Rs 16,000 after 2023—forcing tenant farmers to bear a heavier financial burden.

The cost of cultivation has also escalated. Farmers spend around Rs 25,000 per acre annually, covering tractor rentals, sowing, fertilizers, and harvesting machinery. Tractor rentals cost Rs 7,000 per acre, ploughing Rs 4,000, fertilizers Rs 8,000, and harvesting machines Rs 3,000 per hour. Fertilizer prices have risen by roughly Rs 2,000 on average, and cancellation of tenant farmer ID cards has led banks to halt loans, pushing farmers toward high-interest private lenders.

With the state budget approaching, questions are mounting about whether the government will finally extend support to tenant farmers or continue to overlook them. Political circles are closely watching whether the upcoming budget will provide relief or leave tenant farmers struggling under rising costs, unpaid dues, and broken promises. The situation highlights the urgent need for the government to act before the financial stress on tenant farmers escalates further.