Deputy Chief Minister Bhatti Vikramarka Mallu on Sunday declared that the Congress Government is spending Rs 13,525 crore every year to supply fine rice to 3.10 crore people in Telangana, calling it a historic social welfare programme unmatched elsewhere in the country.
He said no other state has ever implemented such a large-scale PDS fine rice programme, and Telangana has now become a national benchmark in social welfare delivery.
Addressing the media after launching development projects worth hundreds of crores in Madhira mandal and municipality, Bhatti said the Congress Government had succeeded where the BRS government had failed.
“For 10 years, BRS leaders spoke about fine rice but didn’t distribute even a single grain. We made it a reality. Since Ugadi, 90 lakh ration card holders and 2.85 crore beneficiaries have been receiving fine rice. With new ration cards, this will go up to 3.10 crore,” he said.
Bhatti said Telangana’s fine rice distribution is receiving tremendous public response and reflects the government’s genuine commitment to the poor. He also emphasised that the scheme is not limited to food security but extends to supporting farmers cultivating fine paddy, for whom the state has sanctioned Rs 2,675 crore as a bonus.
Listing out the Congress admin’s welfare measures, Bhatti said Rs 21,000 crore was spent on waiving farm loans, Rs 18,000 crore for Rythu Bharosa and Rs 12,500 crore to ensure 24×7 free power for agricultural pumps.
“Despite inheriting a debt-ridden state with Rs 8 lakh crore liability from the BRS,
the Congress government did not compromise on its promises to the poor,” he said.
He said that employment generation remains a priority, with 56,000 government jobs already filled and another 36,000 vacancies to be filled soon. The TSPSC has been revamped and a job calendar issued.
For youth who couldn’t secure jobs, Bhatti said the government has rolled out the Rs 9,000 crore Rajiv Yuva Vikasam self-employment scheme.
The deadline for filing applications as per the scheme has been extended to April 14. Sanction letters will be distributed in all constituencies and mandals from June 2 to 9, followed by training and launching of the projects.
Urging unemployed youth to seize the opportunity, he said, “This government belongs to the people. It is fulfilling the dreams of those who fought for Telangana’s statehood.”
