Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge calls for rural communities to be provided security before crisis strikes
Congress president says tribal communities and villages need access to technology, opportunities and basic infrastructure
On September 2, 2026, Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge called for rural communities to be provided security measures before crises, such as droughts, floods, or crop failures, occur. Speaking at an event hosted by the Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy Foundation and the Dr. KVP Foundation, Kharge emphasized that rural communities should not be remembered only during these crises and called for a development model that ensures their security beforehand.
He urged governments to ensure fair markets for farmers, decent livelihoods for rural families, and economic independence for women, while also granting access to technology, opportunities, and basic infrastructure for tribal communities and villages. Kharge criticized the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh without naming specific individuals, alleging that they had stolen credit for reforms the Congress party had accomplished.
He highlighted the legacies of Dr. Rajasekhara Reddy, who worked for the poor and marginalized, and Dr. M.S. Swaminathan, who combined scientific advancement with social equity and environmental sustainability. Kharge warned about the growing impact of climate change on rural communities, noting that uncertain weather patterns could lead to environmental damage, crop losses, livelihood disruptions, educational setbacks, and mounting household debt.
He stressed that addressing these issues was not just about good science but also social justice. The MSSRF, established in 1988, has been promoting Swaminathan's vision through its work in rural and tribal communities, focusing on farming practices, technology, market access, livelihoods, nutrition, women's empowerment, and climate resilience.
Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy also attended the event, calling for the Congress to work harder to remove the Narendra Modi government and elect Rahul Gandhi as Prime Minister. Dr. Soumya Swaminathan, chair of the MSSRF and daughter of M.S. Swaminathan, delivered a video message, praising the foundation for receiving the Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy Award 2026.
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