Former minister Srinivas Goud urges Congress to back Neera over Beer

Former Minister V. Srinivas Goud has criticised the Congress government for promoting beer manufacturing units at the expense of traditional toddy-tapping communities. During a visit to a palm grove in Nagarkurnool district, he called for prioritising natural Neera centres and fulfilling promises made to toddy tappers.

Hyderabad: Former Minister V. Srinivas Goud has called on the Congress government to prioritise the promotion of natural Neera centres instead of encouraging artificially produced beer units, which he said would threaten the livelihoods of communities dependent on traditional occupations.

Speaking during a visit to a palm grove owned by Krishnaiah Goud in Tarnikal village of Kalwakurthy Mandal in Nagarkurnool district, Goud emphasised the importance of supporting traditional toddy tappers and their sustainable practices.

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During his visit, Srinivas Goud interacted with Krishnaiah Goud’s wife, Yadamma, and their son, Pawan, inquiring about the income generated from their palm grove and the challenges faced by toddy tappers.

He highlighted the efforts of the previous BRS government, which he said had provided comprehensive support to toddy tappers. Goud criticised the current Congress government for failing to honour its election promises to the toddy-tapping community.

“The Congress government promised to allocate five acres of land per village for toddy tappers and enhance their income sources. These commitments must be implemented,” Goud demanded.

He accused the government of neglecting traditional occupations in favour of corporate interests, particularly by promoting beer manufacturing units that undermine the livelihoods of toddy tappers.