Politics · India Bureau
Water Resources Ministry allocates ₹169 crore relief for Veligonda project displaced
The Water Resources Minister announced a compensation package for project-affected persons who were excluded under the previous 2019 eligibility criteria. The funds will cover individuals who attained adulthood after the original cut-off date.
LSN India ·
The Water Resources Ministry has approved an ex gratia payment of ₹169 crore for displaced persons from the Veligonda irrigation project, according to an announcement by Water Resources Minister Rama Naidu. The allocation addresses a gap in the previous compensation framework that had set a 2019 eligibility cut-off date.
The additional funds will extend relief to those who became eligible for assistance after turning 18 subsequent to the original deadline. This expansion of the beneficiary base reflects efforts to ensure equitable distribution of project-related compensation across all affected families.
The Veligonda project, a major irrigation initiative in the region, is scheduled for formal inauguration on August 31. The project aims to enhance water availability for agricultural and drinking water purposes across multiple districts.
The ex gratia announcement comes as the project approaches completion, with authorities moving to settle outstanding displacement-related liabilities before the inauguration ceremony. The ₹169 crore allocation underscores the government's commitment to addressing the concerns of project-displaced persons.