GST Exemption for Water Users Associations: Key Highlights from Andhra CM Naidu
VIJAYAWADA: In a significant move for the agricultural sector, Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu announced that works executed by irrigation Water Users Associations (WUAs) in Andhra Pradesh will be exempt from GST. This initiative aims to ensure that water is efficiently distributed across every acre of farmland in the state.
During the Neeru-Pragathi and Jala Harathi program at Parade Grounds in Nelapadu, CM Naidu emphasized the transformation of Andhra Pradesh into a farmer-friendly state, moving away from its past marked by challenges such as ryot suicides. He credited planned governance for these advancements.
Major Irrigation Projects and Their Impact
The Chief Minister highlighted the vital role of major irrigation projects initiated by former Chief Minister NT Rama Rao, including notable schemes like Handri-Neeva, Galeru-Nagari, and Telugu Ganga, which have significantly improved the agricultural landscape of Rayalaseema.
Anantapur, once among India’s driest districts, has now emerged as a horticulture hub, thanks to micro-irrigation subsidies and robust water conservation initiatives. “Rayalaseema will be transformed into Ratnala Seema with a golden future,” Naidu declared confidently.
Recognition of Water Users Associations
Naidu acknowledged the effective functioning of WUAs, recalling that Andhra Pradesh was the first state to establish these associations back in 1997. Recent elections for 6,047 water user societies, alongside 267 distributary and 58 project committees, reflect the state’s commitment to empower local water management.
This year, WUAs are executing operation and maintenance works worth Rs 344 crore, with the limit for nomination-based works increased to Rs 10 lakh, enhancing their operational capacity.
Upcoming Major Projects
On the agenda of major projects, CM Naidu confirmed the completion of the Polavaram project by June 2027, supported by the Central Government. This will facilitate river-linking initiatives, crucial for the state’s irrigation infrastructure. Presently, reservoirs are filled to 91% capacity, holding 846 TMC of water. He assured that projects like Tarakarama Teerthasagar and Veligonda will be completed within three years.
Addressing Concerns over Rayalaseema Lift Irrigation Scheme
Naidu also addressed concerns regarding the Rayalaseema Lift Irrigation Scheme, criticizing attempts to mislead the public. He noted that the National Green Tribunal had previously halted the scheme. Under the current NDA government, Andhra Pradesh is witnessing substantial investments worth Rs 20 lakh crore, leading to the creation of 23 lakh jobs, with significant support from Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The meeting was attended by key officials, including Ministers Nimmala Ramanaidu, K Atchannaidu, and Kandula Durgesh, along with BJP State President PVN Madhav.
This SEO-optimized content integrates relevant keywords related to agricultural initiatives, irrigation, and local governance, ensuring it meets search engine standards while retaining the original message’s essence.