Telangana Government Sets Example of Welfare Amidst National Debate
Telangana is emerging as a trailblazer in welfare schemes, despite ongoing debates about their efficacy and political motives. Chief Minister K. Chandrashekhar Rao hails Telangana as the epitome of welfare, while Municipal Minister K.T. Rama Rao challenges other states to match Telangana’s accomplishments in implementing welfare programs.
Mr. Rama Rao asserts that these schemes not only address the needs of the vulnerable sections of society but also serve the state’s interest by promoting social harmony and reducing economic disparities. The Telangana government proudly claims that their welfare initiatives have not only improved the lives of individuals but have also made significant contributions to the state’s economy. The funds allocated to these programs have been invested in agriculture, and as a result, Telangana has become the leading producer of paddy in the country.
One particular scheme, known as Aasra pensions, has provided financial support to the elderly, ensuring their confidence and independence. This has relieved them from excessive dependence on their children, allowing them to lead a dignified life. Over the past nine years, lakhs of people have directly benefited from various welfare schemes, and thousands more have been included under the welfare umbrella.
Government figures reveal remarkable progress. In 2014, the number of beneficiaries under the Asara pension scheme was 28,47,855. By 2023, this number had increased to an impressive 43,81,338. Similarly, the monthly expenditure on Asara pensions grew significantly from ₹67.47 crore in 2014 to a substantial ₹976.42 crore in the present day.
In a recent decision, the Telangana government enhanced the pension amount for physically challenged individuals to ₹4,016. This move would benefit a staggering 5,11,656 people. Initially, the government provided pension support to the elderly, differently-abled individuals, HIV-AIDS victims, handloom workers, and stone masons. Subsequently, they introduced the Asara Pension Scheme for beedi workers in March 2015, single women in April 2017, filaria-affected individuals in April 2018, and dialysis victims in August 2022. Remarkably, Telangana remains the only state providing pension support to beedi workers.
Additionally, the government has lowered the eligibility age for old-age pensions from 65 to 57 years. This decision allows 10 lakh beneficiaries from various categories to receive new old-age pensions as well as new support pensions. Chief Minister K. Chandrashekhar Rao emphasizes that the government’s decision to provide financial security to these communities stems from a sense of humanitarian responsibility.
Before the formation of Telangana, the government provided a pension of ₹200 per month to the elderly, differently-abled individuals, handloom workers, and AIDS victims. However, after the state’s formation, the government significantly increased the monthly pensions to ₹2,016 and ₹3,016 for the differently-abled individuals. Moreover, a support pension of ₹2016 is now available for beedi workers, single women, teachers, and dialysis victims. As a result of these welfare measures, the number of pension beneficiaries has increased by an astounding 15,33,483 since 2014, with the total number reaching 43,81,338.
The Telangana government has invested ₹58,696.25 crore to date for Asara pensions, providing significant financial assistance. With the recent increase in support for the disabled, the annual expenditure under this scheme will reach ₹11,712 crore. The decision to raise the pension for differently-abled individuals to ₹4,016 has been praised by Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao, as it will provide monthly financial support of ₹205.48 crore to the disabled population. Prior to Telangana’s formation, only 3,57,000 differently-abled individuals received a meager ₹17 crore, equivalent to ₹500 per month. However, proactive efforts to identify eligible individuals have led to a substantial increase in beneficiaries, now totaling 5,11,656.
Panchayat Raj Minister E. Dayakar Rao proudly compares the pensions offered by other states, highlighting Telangana’s unmatched dedication to welfare initiatives. Additionally, Telangana has experienced significant growth in per capita income, further demonstrating its commitment to the welfare of its citizens.
Comparison of monthly pensions provided to differently-abled individuals in various states showcases Telangana’s remarkable efforts:
– Karnataka: ₹1,100
– Rajasthan: ₹750
– Chhattisgarh: ₹500
– Uttar Pradesh: ₹1,000
– Maharashtra: ₹300
– Madhya Pradesh: ₹300
– Andhra Pradesh: ₹3,000
– Bihar: ₹500
– Mizoram: ₹100
– Odisha: ₹200
– Jharkhand: ₹700
– Tamil Nadu: ₹1,000
– Kerala: ₹1,300
– Telangana: ₹4,016
Telangana’s exemplary welfare measures serve as a shining example to the nation, demonstrating the positive impact of comprehensive social support programs. The government’s commitment to ensuring the well-being and financial security of its citizens has transformed countless lives, and Telangana continues to strive for a society that is free from economic disparities and conflicts.