BJP requested the Centre to increase input subsidy to the farmers in drought-affected areas who lost their crops following inadequate rainfall in Andhra Pradesh during the last year's khaif season.

In a memorandum submitted to an inter-ministerial Central team which is visiting the state, the Opposition party said severe drought conditions are prevailing in all most all districts of Andhra Pradesh.

Power shortage during the khaif season multiplied the problems of the farmers, forcing them to commit suicide.

Despite so many representatives from the farming community, there was no sign of financial aid either from the State or the Central Government, the party alleged. Demanding an ex-gratia of Rs 5 lakh to the kin of the farmers who committed suicide, the BJP said the Disaster Management Department should review the input subsidy norms every year and revise them according to the cost of cultivation.

A seven-member delegation led by BJP National Secretary K Laxman met the team and submitted the memorandum.

Tags: Andhra Pradesh, BJP National Secretary, Central Government, Disaster Management Department, Opposition party