TDP Began Ration Rice Distribution Before Cyclone Montha: Palla Srinivasa Rao

Telugu Desam Party (TDP) State President and Gajuwaka MLA Palla Srinivasa Rao stated that the State government began distributing ration rice across Andhra Pradesh on October 28, two days before Cyclone Montha made landfall. The move followed the directions of Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu.

In a statement on Thursday, Mr. Srinivasa Rao stated that sufficient stocks of essential goods were maintained at all fair price shops and Mandal-level stock points (MLS). He urged families to collect their supplies and assured them that no household would face shortages.

He said that the State has 1.46 crore ration card holders and about 29,000 ration depots. So far, only 9.77% of families have collected their rations. People facing issues can call the toll-free number 1967 for help.

Each affected family, he said, is receiving 25 kilograms of rice, one kilogram each of red gram dal, onions, potatoes, and sugar, and one litre of cooking oil. The government has also announced ₹3,000 as ex gratia per family. Fishermen families are getting 50 kilograms of rice as additional support.

Mr. Srinivasa Rao said the government acted quickly to reduce the cyclone’s impact. “Despite the storm’s intensity, not a single life was lost. This shows the foresight and preparedness of Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu and IT Minister Nara Lokesh,” he said.

He said leaders from neighbouring States praised Mr. Naidu’s timely response, while YSRCP leaders “tried to politicise the crisis instead of supporting the victims.”

The government, he said, has started assessing crop losses and will help all affected farmers. He also appreciated TDP workers for their work in rescue and relief efforts. “Our party workers faced heavy rains to evacuate people and distribute supplies. Their service reflects the values of the TDP,” he said.