The Sammakka-Saralamma Jatara, which is said to be Asia’s biggest tribal fair, is taking place in Medaram village in Mulugu district. The four-day fair will start on February 21, 2024. The Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy has approved Rs 75 crore for the event, just like the previous two carnivals. However, there has been a delay in releasing the funds due to the elections and the transition of power. The Endowments Minister Konda Surekha met with the Chief Minister to request the immediate release of the funds.
Despite announcing the dates of the fair on May 3, the previous government did not make any arrangements for Medaram. The administration faces difficulties in completing the necessary preparations and ensuring quality work due to delays. The government has not addressed the long-standing demand for permanent facilities at Medaram and instead relies on makeshift arrangements. They spend a lot of money on temporary toilets but neglect permanent measures.
The ITDA, Eturnagaram, Project Officer Ankit has inspected the ongoing works at Incherla and Chalvai villages. He has instructed the contractors to complete the work before the start of the fair. Panchayat Raj and Rural Development Minister Danasari Anasuya, also known as Seethakka, will hold a review meeting next week to discuss the arrangements for the fair. She has already held a review meeting in Hyderabad to assess the preparedness of Medaram Jatara.
