Markanti Bhumanna

“A Legacy of Service: Markanti Bhumanna’s 27-Year Commitment to Kuruma and Golla Welfare”

Markanti Bhumanna, a dedicated Congress Party worker from Markal Village, has tirelessly served the Kuruma and Golla communities involved in sheep and goat rearing in Nizamabad and Kamareddy districts for 27 years. As the president of the combined Nizamabad District Sheep and Goat Breeders Cooperative Union from 2014 to 2019, he played a crucial role in advancing the welfare of Gollas and Kurumas. Bhumanna successfully advocated for various government schemes, including subsidies for sheep and goat units, the Comprehensive Sheep Development Scheme, and the establishment of mobile veterinary hospitals. He also addressed issues like the Etti Gorela problem and worked towards justice for shepherds facing challenges. Bhumanna’s efforts include organizing awareness programs, rallies, and conferences across different constituencies to promote government assistance programs and uplift the Golla and Kuruma communities.

Markanti Bhumaiah’s TRS Party Affiliation

Markanti Bhumaiah’s decision to join the TRS Party in 2014 marked a notable shift in his political allegiance. The presence of KCR, a prominent figure in the TRS Party, added significance to the occasion.

 “Empowering Golla and Kuruma Communities: A Decade of Leadership and Welfare Initiatives in Telangana”

Since 2010, the Telangana State Sadhana Movement has joined Golla and Kuruma and carried out significant public relations campaigns in the Kamareddy area.

Following the creation of the new Telangana state in 2014, on August 12, 2014, he was elected District President of the elections held for the joint Nizamabad District Sheep and Goat Breeders Cooperative Union. He held the responsibilities till the year 2019.

He also serves as the Chairman of the Nizamabad District Sheep and Goat Breeders Cooperative Union and is a pivotal figure in overseeing the cooperative’s operations and initiatives. As the head of this union, they play a crucial role in coordinating activities, facilitating communication among members, and implementing strategies to enhance the welfare and productivity of sheep and goat breeders in the Nizamabad region.

Between 2014 and 2019, there were (224) cooperative societies of primary sheep and goat breeders in the Nizamabad district, with an additional (419) societies founded in villages, bringing the total number of societies to 643. Approximately (36,983) Golla and Kuruma members participate in government welfare systems.

On April 6, 2015, a special team of 25 persons was trained by the CWDB (Central Wool Development Board) Govt. in Avikanagar, Rajasthan State, to observe sheep wool-related items and raise awareness about the development of good breed sheep.

On August 24, 2015, approximately (45,000) Golla and Kuruma held the first massive public meeting in Telangana state, and the government considered (23) demands to be fulfilled for the welfare of Golla and Kuruma, with the government fulfilling (09) important demands. 

“Revolutionizing Livestock Welfare: Transformative Initiatives and Schemes in Sheep and Goat Farming by the Government of Telangana”

• The NCDC in New Delhi has suggested sheep and goat units with a 20% subsidy to sheep and goat farmers, and the government has allocated funding of Rs.50 crore to each district.
• While offering sheep and goat units a 75% subsidy to sheep and goat producers, the government created and implemented the “Comprehensive Sheep Development Scheme” (2,00,000) with Rs.5,500 crores.
• Establishment of “Mobile Veterinary Hospitals” to provide better veterinary treatment in remote villages.
• The animal husbandry department previously distributed anti-worm drugs to animals twice yearly, but it has been agreed that they will be given thrice.
• To make grass available to animals in the forests, the government dispersed free “Stylo Hemata” grass seeds on a huge scale, allowing them to grow into feed.
• The formation of new primary sheep and goat breeders’ cooperative organisations, which had been blocked for many years, was accelerated, and hundreds of new primary cooperatives were established throughout the state.
• The Primary Sheep and Goat Breeders Co-operative Society Act has been changed to include the Golla, Kuruma, and Kuruba castes, whose primary source of income is animal husbandry, as members of the society, as well as to create the position of Chairman of the Federation of State Societies.
• A 5-acre Yadava Sangha Building and a Kurma Sangha Building were proposed for Rs. 5 crore each in the state capital. The buildings are virtually finished and ready for inauguration.
• The government accepted and is currently organising the first official celebration of the Telangana peasant armed struggle, “Doddi Komuraiya” Jayanti and death anniversary.

I take immense pride in the transformative initiatives the Government of Telangana spearheaded. The Comprehensive Sheep Development Scheme has moved the sheep and goat farming sector with its substantial subsidy. The establishment of Mobile Veterinary Hospitals and increased distribution of anti-worm drugs reflect our dedication to animal healthcare. The inclusive approach, including Golla, Kuruma, and Kuruba castes in cooperative unions, showcases our commitment to uplifting diverse farming communities. The proposed Yadava Sangha and Kurma Sangha Buildings signify our focus on creating essential infrastructure for the welfare of our farmers.

Applicability of “Payable interest” on interest on NCDC loans:-

The first instalment of money for the joint Nizamabad district totalled around Rs.4.98 crore. In this program, too, when the then-Honorable Chief Minister met with (2,000) Gollas and Kuruma at Pragati Bhavan and brought to their notice the “Pawala Udhi” scheme, which was to be applied to 80% of the NCDC loan, it was accepted and implemented.

“Guardians of the Flock: Resolving Challenges, Seeking Justice, and Nurturing the Welfare of Golla and Kuruma Communities”

Solving the Etty Sheep Problem:-

Aside from that, every Golla and Kuruma family in the joint Nizamabad district was accessible and supported by resolving the “Etti Gorela problem (giving free sheep to village committees)” that existed in the communities during their nomadic lifestyle, mostly for sheep grazing.

To the shepherds who died at the hands of other shepherds:

In numerous situations where robbers kidnapped and mistreated shepherds, fellow shepherds, Kuruma Mitra, and political and police officers worked together to ensure that justice was served to them and their families.

Assistance for Shepherds Who Died Accidentally:

In the event of the shepherds’ unintentional deaths in the forests, efforts were made to obtain compensation from the government and assistance from caste communities.

Conducting awareness training about government aid programs for shepherds:

Members of the primary cooperative societies and shepherds were encouraged to hold special meetings with them to ensure they were properly informed about the government’s welfare initiatives.

Proposals for constructing “Jeewala Market Yard”:

Proposals were submitted to the former administration for a fair price for the shepherds’ animals and the acquisition of suitable property for constructing “Livestock Market Yards” with all relevant amenities, but no order was issued.

For nine years, efforts have been undertaken to uplift and connect the Golla and Kuruma brothers by providing treating medication, immunizations, training sessions, and sheep distribution.

Furthermore, for their progress and well-being, Bhumanna asks that the government remain dedicated and cooperative in servicing them.

“As a dedicated leader, I have tirelessly championed the cause of Golla and Kuruma communities in the Nizamabad district. Our collective efforts have been unwavering, from addressing longstanding issues like the ‘Etti Gorela problem’ to ensuring justice for shepherds facing adversity. We’ve worked on vital initiatives, including awareness training, proposing market yards, and providing essential support, with a steadfast commitment to the upliftment and well-being of our Golla and Kuruma brothers. The journey of the past nine years reflects our persistent dedication to their progress, and I urge the government to continue its collaborative efforts for their sustained welfare.”

Details of various activities implemented in (9) Legislative Assembly constituencies within the united Nizamabad District”:

Kamareddy Assembly Constituency:

• On October 16, 2011, 15,000 people in Kamareddy town, with Gollas and Kurumals (150) playing drums, organized a massive rally for “Telangana Rashtra Sadhan” from Kamareddy Ganji Gate to Nijamsagar Square. The Honorable Secunderabad Member of Parliament, Mr Bandaru Dattatreya, Kurma Sangha State President, Mr Egge Mallesham, and the society’s National B.C. President, Mr R. Krishnaiah, attended the function.
• On September 22, 2014, an awareness conference on government assistance packages with (2,500) Golla Kuruma was held at the Machareddy mandal centre.
• On June 13, 2016, animal husbandry minister Mr Thalasani Srinivas Yadav was invited to a program at Jangampally hamlet to provide anti-nutritional drugs to animals and raise awareness about government welfare measures with (3,500) Golla Kurumas.
• On December 13, 2016, the Bonala celebration program was organized with (7,000) Golla Kuruma at Domakonda mandal centre by inviting local MLA Mr Gampa Govardhan. The beneficiaries of the same program received NCDC-subsidized loans.
• On January 30, 2018, Kamareddy district organized a “Victory Rally” in Kamareddy town with (5,000) people to celebrate becoming the first in the state to implement the “Comprehensive Sheep Development Scheme”.
• Programs for the development of the Gurjakunta village Birappa temple were planned and arranged on March 16, 2018, at the Bhiknoor mandal centre, which had (500) Kurumas.

The Ellareddy Assembly Constituency:

• Golla Kuruma of Kamareddy district launched awareness seminars on government welfare schemes at Mallanna Gutta (Markal) in Sadashiva Nagar Mandal, with 5,000 participants.
• Golla Kuruma arranged government assistance scheme awareness seminars at the Lingampet mandal centre (550).
• About (1,000) Golla Kuruma members held awareness campaigns about government assistance programs at the Ellareddy mandal centre’s agricultural market yard.
• Golla Kuruma was organised at Nagireddy Pate Mandal Centre (700) to raise awareness about government assistance services.
• Tadwai mandal centre hosted awareness events on government assistance schemes with (650) Golla Kuruma.
• In the Gandhari mandal centre, (500) Golla Kurumas participated in awareness workshops about government welfare schemes.

The Jukkal Assembly Constituency:-

• On November 25, 2015, a sand lorry lost control and ran over a group of sheep at Gopan Palli, Bichkunda Mandal, killing 70 sheep and suffering significant financial loss. Damages of Rs. 9,50 lakhs were granted.
• Mr Hanmant Shinde, Jukkal MLA, was invited to an awareness seminar for (5,000) sheep breeders on September 12, 2018, at Pitlam Mandal Centre.
• Mr Dafedar Raju, Chairman of the ZDP, was invited to Achampet and Hasan Pally villages in Nizamsagar Mandal to arrange a free anti-worm distribution and sheep awareness lecture.

Bansuwada Assembly Constituency:-

• Date. On September 11, 2023, an awareness session was held in Bansuwada town with (5,000) Gollas and Kuruma from the Bansuwada constituency.
• Telangana State Agriculture and Animal Husbandry Minister Varyulu Shri Pocharam Srinivas Reddy launched the “Free distribution of anti-nutritional drugs to sheep” program in Bansuwada and held an awareness conference.
• Mr Pocharam Srinivas Reddy began the “First Phase Sheep Distribution Program” in Ibrahimpet village, Bansuwada Mandal.
• Mr Pocharam Srinivas Reddy, Telangana State Agriculture and Animal Husbandry Minister launched the “Free distribution of anti-worm medicines to sheep” program and held an awareness conference in Kishtapur, Birkur Mandal.
• One thousand five hundred individuals attended public meetings and awareness events at the “Beerappa Temple” in Kallur and Kotagiri villages of Kotagiri Mandal.
• Shepherd training and awareness sessions were held in the Govur and Moshra villages of Varni mandal.

Nizamabad Urban Assembly Constituency:-

• The first big public meeting in Telangana state was held on August 24, 2015, in the Nizamabad district centre, with approximately (75,000) Gollas and Kuruma in attendance, and the government considered (23) demands to be met for the welfare of Gollas and Kuruma.

Nizamabad Rural Assembly Constituency:-

• Mr Ronald Rose, the district collector, was the principal guest at the Mopal Mandal centre, where awareness programs on “free sheep lice prevention medicine dispenser” and government assistance schemes were held for approximately 550 shepherds.
• Telangana State Agriculture and Animal Husbandry Minister Mr Pocharam Srinivas Reddy, Nizamabad Rural MLA Mr Bajireddy Govardhan, and M.LC. V. Gangadhar Goud were there.
• M. L. C. was the keynote speaker at the Shepherd’s Awareness Conference in Nadipalli village, Dichpalli Mandal. V. Gangadhar Goud and the district veterinarian and animal husbandry officer were present.
• Mr Bajireddy Govardhan, Nizamabad Rural MLA, was the special guest at an awareness conference for (3,000) Gollas and Kurumas held at the Dharpalli Mandal Centre.
• An awareness meeting for 1,500 Gollas and Kurumas was held at the Sirikonda Mandal Centre. Shri Bajireddy Govardhan, the Nizamabad Rural MLA, was the chief guest.
• Nizamabad Rural MLA Mr Bajireddy Govardhan, the principal guest, hosted an awareness session for (800) shepherds in Padakal village of Jakran Palli Mandal and an NCDC loan check distribution event.
• Shri Bajireddy Govardhan, Nizamabad Rural MLA, was the chief guest at the Ditch Palli Mandal Centre, where an awareness seminar was held for around 7,000 Gollas and Kurumas.

Bodhan Assembly Constituency:-

• On May 16, 2017, around 5,500 Constituency-level Golla Kuruma were held in Bodhan town centre, with Mrs Kalwakuntla Kavitha, Member of Parliament of Nizamabad, and Mr Shakeel Ahmed Amir, MLA of Bodhan, serving as major guests, as well as awareness programs on government welfare measures.
• On October 28, 2018, in Bodan Town Center, about (3,000) Constituency-level Golla Kuruma, Nizamabad Member of Parliament Mrs Kalvakuntla Kavitha, and Bodan MLA Mr Shakeel Ahmed Aamir attended as major guests and organised awareness programs on government welfare packages.
• Awareness campaigns about government assistance programs were held with (500) Golla Kuruma at the Edapalli Mandal Centre.
• In the Navipet Mandal centre, (1000) Golla Kuruma participated in awareness activities on government welfare schemes.
• In the Renjal Mandal centre, (750) Golla Kuruma participated in awareness campaigns about government aid systems.

Armor Assembly Constituency:-

• In the “Ganga Samundar” village in Nandipet mandal, the local development committee took roughly (200) “eighty sheep” from the poor shepherds. “Abolishing the Etti sheep system” has always meant achieving justice.
• In the “Vannel (K)” village of Nandipet mandal, approximately (3,000) Golla and Kuruma brothers held awareness campaigns concerning government assistance services.
• In Armur town, approximately (1,500) Golla and Kuruma brothers created awareness campaigns concerning government aid programs.
• Around (1,000) Golla and Kuruma brothers held awareness campaigns about government assistance programs in the Maklur mandal centre.
• In Nandipet Mandal “CH. In Kondur” village, around (1,000) Golla and Kuruma brothers held awareness campaigns about government assistance programs.
• Around (1,500) Golla and Kuruma brothers staged awareness workshops on government assistance schemes at the Nandipet Mandal centre.
• Around (1,000) Golla and Kuruma brothers held awareness campaigns about government welfare schemes at the Alur mandal centre.
• In the “Mullangi” village of Maklur mandal, approximately (500) Golla and Kuruma brothers staged awareness campaigns concerning government welfare programs.

Balkonda Assembly Constituency:-

• In Mendora village, the village development committee harassed the poor shepherds to hand over “Etty Gorrelu” and pressured them by filing illegal cases; together with the brothers of Golla and Kuruma, they organised a dharna program and brought justice to the poor shepherds with the help of Nizamabad district police officials.
• In Donchanda village, Ergatla mandal, the local development committee brutalised poor shepherds to hand over “how many sheep” and put them under duress by filing criminal charges. The superiors cooperated to bring justice to the impoverished shepherds.
• About (1,500) Golla and Kuruma brothers went to bring the issue to the District Collector’s attention in the context of the village development committee in Pallikonda village of Bhimgal mandal, who have imposed “strange regulations on the determination of the sale price of sheep and sheep farming” and have been robbing them of their hard work for many generations. The issue was resolved with the help of the Revenue Divisional Officer, and justice was served.
• In the issue of illegal encroachment on leased property purchased by poor shepherds in Chengal village of Bhimgal Mandal under the auspices of the Village Development Committee, justice was served by granting them land rights with the assistance of the Revenue Divisional Officer.
• An awareness conference on government assistance packages featuring Golla Kuruma (2,500) was held at the Bhimgal mandal centre.
• In the Velpur mandal centre, Golla Kuruma (1,500) participated in awareness activities on government assistance packages.
• Awareness campaigns about government welfare programs were held with (1,500) Golla Kuruma at the Kamar Palli mandal centre.
• Awareness campaigns about government welfare services were held with (800) Golla Kuruma at the Mortad mandal centre.
• In the Balkonda mandal centre, (1,300) Golla Kuruma participated in awareness sessions about government assistance packages.