Telangana: Govt takes measures for rehabilitation of Amrabad tribals: Deputy CM Bhatti Distributes Compensation Cheques

The State Government has taken a pivotal decision aimed at harmonizing the development of tribal families residing within the Amrabad Tiger Reserve with the imperative of forest and wildlife conservation. As part of this initiative, the government has undertaken measures to provide rehabilitation to families belonging to tribal villages located within the Amrabad Tiger Reserve. Specifically, in the first phase of this process, steps have been initiated to facilitate the rehabilitation of a total of 417 families across four villages.

During a special event held today at the Assembly Council Hall—attended by Deputy Chief Minister Bhatti Vikramarka Mallu and Ministers Konda Surekha, Uttam Kumar Reddy, and Jupally Krishna Rao—compensation checks worth ₹15 lakhs each were distributed to 14 tribal families.

Speaking on this occasion, Deputy Chief Minister Bhatti Vikramarka stated that the government views it as its solemn responsibility to bring the light of development into the lives of the tribals who have lived in harmony with nature within the Amrabad forests for centuries. At the same time, he clarified that the government is according equal priority to the conservation of forests and wildlife.

“This is not merely a routine administrative decision; it is a historic socio-environmental reform,” the Deputy Chief Minister remarked. He added that through the voluntary rehabilitation of these tribal families, their living standards would be enhanced, while simultaneously restoring natural habitats for wildlife, including tigers. It was stated that this entire process is being conducted strictly in accordance with the wishes of the tribal communities, and assistance is being provided in two distinct ways based on their preferences:

• Cash compensation of ₹15 lakhs per family for 160 families.
• The Deputy Chief Minister announced that 257 families are being provided with 5 acres of agricultural land each, along with modern housing facilities, at Bacharam in the Nagarkurnool district.

He stated that a total of ₹62.55 crores has been allocated for the development of families belonging to the villages of Sarlapalli, Kudichintalabailu, Tatigundalapenta, and Kollampenta. Of this amount, ₹24 crores is being utilized for cash compensation, while ₹38.55 crores is being used for housing facilities. He further revealed that work on a pilot project at Bacharam has already commenced.

“This is not merely a relocation of homes… it is a transformation of livelihoods,” the Minister clarified. He stated that following rehabilitation, the tribal families would be provided not only with permanent houses, drinking water, electricity, and healthcare services, but also with agricultural land for every family.

He added that modern schools, Anganwadis, and digital learning facilities would be made accessible to tribal children. The Minister further stated that their economic self-reliance would be strengthened through Self-Help Groups and skill development centers.

He noted that, as a result of this decision, approximately 1,501 hectares of forest land would be restored, creating conditions where wildlife—including tigers—could roam freely. The Minister also affirmed that measures would be taken to increase the tiger population. The Minister explained that the rehabilitation colony currently under construction at Bacharam is being developed into a model village, equipped with all essential infrastructure. He stated that all amenities—such as roads, drinking water, electricity, schools, community halls, and farmers’ platforms—would be made available at a single location.

Speaking on the occasion, PCCF Dr. Suvarna noted that this rehabilitation initiative would prove pivotal for forest conservation. She stated that the program is being implemented by harmonizing two key objectives: the development of tribal communities and the conservation of wildlife. She further remarked that this initiative stands as a comprehensive program that not only improves the living standards of tribal communities but also contributes significantly to forest conservation.

MLAs Chikkudu Vamshi Krishna and Rajesh Reddy, PCCF (Wildlife) Vinay Kumar, CCF (CAMPA) Kshitija, CF Sunil Hiramath, Nagarkurnool Collector Badavath Santosh, DFO Revanth Chandra, and other officials participated in this event.