Andhra again 'intrudes' into Odisha in guise of coffee plantation

Amid the ongoing dispute between Odisha and Andhra Pradesh over the Kotia region, the neighbouring government is reportedly making further intrusion bid by establishing a coffee nursery at Andaruguda under Koraput’s Nandapur block.

As per reports, Andhra has taken over a patch of land near Raipada village to establish a coffee nursery under MGNREGA. In fact, the neighbouring government has put up a sign board claiming its area around the coffee nursery.

The sign board shows an amount of Rs 69 lakh has been spent for the project during 2019.

Following complaints by some locals, the district administration sprang into action and deputed revenue and forest department officials to visit the area.

Recently, the officials of the Andhra government from Parvathipuram Manyam district visited the Kotia region in Koraput and held discussions with the locals in Phagunasinery and Phatusinery.

According to sources, some officials from the Tribal Welfare Department of Andhra Pradesh went to the region and attempted to lure the locals by offering several welfare schemes.

It is worthwhile to mention here that, despite strict opposition from the Odisha government, Andhra continues to intrude into the Kotia region and entice the locals.

(Reported by Jagatjiban Kachim, OTV)