Telangana State Government’s Comprehensive Efforts for SC Welfare and Development
Telangana, August 18 – The Telangana State Government is actively implementing numerous welfare and development schemes aimed at enhancing the well-being of Scheduled Castes (SCs). These initiatives encompass education, social development, and economic self-reliance to promote a more inclusive society.
In addition to addressing the educational and social needs of SCs and Scheduled Tribes (STs), the government has rolled out programs to foster their economic sustainability. These efforts run parallel to the welfare schemes extended to other communities but include unique provisions tailored for SCs.
Dalit Bandhu Scheme:
The Telangana government has introduced and successfully executed the groundbreaking Dalit Bandhu scheme, designed to boost social and economic status among SCs who have endured generations of discrimination. Under this program, eligible beneficiaries receive a grant of Rs. 10 lakh without any need for bank linkage, collateral, or repayment. This initiative aims to empower Dalits as self-sufficient entrepreneurs. Notably, 38,323 eligible Dalits have received a total of Rs. 3,832.30 crores through the Dalit Bandhu Scheme.
Scheduled Castes Special Development Fund (SCSDF):
The government is also implementing the Special Development Fund Act to support the development of SCs and STs. This legislation ensures the allocation of funds based on the population proportion of SCs and STs. Funds designated for SCs are safeguarded from being diverted to other schemes, with provisions for carrying over unspent funds to the next year. Between 2014-15 and 2022-23, Rs. 92,640.41 crore has been spent under this initiative.
Financial Assistance Scheme:
The government provides financial assistance of up to Rs. 1 lakh to eligible beneficiaries, offering substantial subsidies of 60% to 80% on loans up to Rs. 12 lakh. This initiative has disbursed Rs. 2029.78 crore in subsidies to 1,62,444 beneficiaries between 2014-15 and 2022-23.
SC Hostels and Ambedkar Overseas Scholarship:
Funds have been allocated for the operation of SC hostels, enabling 6,11,716 SC students to access education. Additionally, the government offers financial assistance of Rs. 20 lakh through the Ambedkar Overseas Scholarship Scheme, benefiting Dalit and Tribal students seeking higher education abroad.
Skill Training for SCs:
The government has launched programs to identify SC youth and provide vocational training. To date, 21,653 individuals have received training, leading to employment opportunities in national and international companies.
Three Acres of Land for Dalits:
A scheme aimed at providing 3 acres of land to landless SC women agricultural laborers has resulted in the acquisition of 17,097.09 acres of land, benefiting 6,998 eligible beneficiaries, at a cost of Rs. 769.17 crore from 2014 to 2022.
These initiatives, among others, highlight the Telangana government’s commitment to the welfare and development of SCs, fostering economic independence and social inclusion. The state’s holistic approach encompasses education, financial support, entrepreneurship, and more, creating a more equitable society.
