Sonia slams NDA for neglecting farmers

Jaggampet, Andhra Pradesh, Mar 14 (UNI) AICC President and UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi today came down heavily on the previous BJP-led NDA government for neglecting farmers during its tenure.

Addressing a public meeting 'Rythu Mahothsava Sabha' after inaugurating the 'Pushkar Lift Irrigation Scheme' here, Ms Gandhi alleged that the previous NDA government, supported by the Telugu Desam Party (TDP), had completely neglected the farming sector.

''The BJP and the TDP did nothing for the welfare of farmers. Why they have not introduced any farm loan waiver during their rule? What they say is all sheer hypocrisy,'' she alleged.

Stating that the UPA government has increased the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for paddy, she alleged that the previous NDA government had failed to increase the MSP during its regime.

Describing the 2008-2009 budget as a 'historic budget', Ms Gandhi said''there is only one year left for general elections and we are fulfilling all promises made in the 2004 election manifesto.'' ''We will strive for the welfare of women, poor and children. We are bound to retain the support and goodwill of the people,'' she added.

UNI AP AJ LS HT1609