In a significant development, Narasaraopet Member of Parliament and Telugu Desam Parliamentary Party (TDPP) leader Lavu Sri Krishna Devarayalu has pledged to champion the cause of tobacco farmers adversely affected by a recent increase in the Goods and Services Tax (GST) on cigarettes. The assurance was given on Saturday when a delegation of farmers from the Vinukonda region met the MP at his residence in Guntur.
Farmers Highlight Crisis Due to GST Hike
The delegation submitted a detailed memorandum outlining the severe repercussions of the elevated GST on the tobacco sector. The farmers explained that the tax hike has directly led to a reduced demand for cigarettes in the market. This slump in demand has created a domino effect, causing tobacco prices to fall and plunging growers into financial distress.
Elaborating on the gravity of the situation, the farmers pointed out that the Vinukonda belt is a major tobacco-cultivating region where thousands of families depend entirely on this crop for their survival. They warned that a prolonged slowdown could result in devastating consequences:
- Large volumes of unsold tobacco stock.
- Rapid accumulation of debt among cultivators.
- Extreme financial pressure on small and marginal farmers.
The delegation urgently appealed to the MP to intervene and persuade the Central government to review the current tax structure, advocating for a more farmer-friendly policy approach.
MP's Assurance and Planned Intervention
Responding empathetically to the farmers' plight, MP Lavu Sri Krishna Devarayalu gave them a firm assurance. He committed to conveying their concerns directly to the Union government and raising the issue on the floor of Parliament. His primary objective is to seek concrete measures that ensure tobacco growers receive remunerative prices and are shielded from losses.
"I will ensure your voice is heard in Parliament," Devarayalu told the farmers. He promised to push for necessary policy interventions designed to safeguard the interests of the farming community. The MP emphasized that taxation decisions must consider their cascading impact on farmers and rural livelihoods. He stressed that protecting the income of agricultural producers is fundamental for maintaining economic stability in regions like Andhra Pradesh, which rely heavily on crop-based economies.
Hope for Market Stabilization
The farmers welcomed the MP's strong assurance and expressed hope that a timely intervention by the Centre would help stabilize market conditions. They are looking for relief ahead of the upcoming marketing season to avert a full-blown crisis. The engagement has brought a glimmer of hope to the agrarian community in the Vinukonda belt, which is now looking towards New Delhi for a supportive resolution.
