Hyderabad, January 24: Irrigation and Civil Supplies Minister Capt N Uttam Kumar Reddy announced that the Congress government in Telangana is poised to launch the biggest-ever food security programme in independent India.
He was addressing a joint press conference at the Dr B.R. Ambedkar Telangana Secretariat on Saturday, along with Deputy Chief Minister Bhatti Vikramarka Mallu and Ministers Ponguleti Srinivas Reddy and Tummala Nageshwara Rao, following a review meeting chaired by Chief Minister Revanth Reddy.
Describing the initiative as a historic step, Uttam Kumar Reddy emphasised its aim to ensure food security and economic upliftment for over 70-73% of the state’s population.
The government will roll out four major welfare schemes on Sunday: Rythu Bharosa (financial assistance for farmers), Indiramma Atmeeya Bharosa (support for landless agricultural workers), Indiramma Indlu (housing for the needy), and issuing ration cards. “These schemes, being launched on the occasion of the 75th Republic Day celebrations, underline the Congress government’s commitment to Dr B R Ambedkar’s vision of social justice,” he stated.
The ceremonial launch is scheduled for Sunday, with events in one select village in each mandal between 1:00 PM and 2:30 PM, following Republic Day celebrations that will conclude by 11:30 AM. Rythu Bharosa, Indiramma Atmeeya Bharosa, Indiramma Indlu, and the issuance of ration cards will be implemented up to the saturation point in the selected villages.
Highlighting the programme’s unparalleled scope, Uttam Kumar Reddy remarked, “For the first time in independent India, a state is implementing such a comprehensive food security initiative. This reflects our commitment to celebrating the values enshrined in our Constitution while addressing the fundamental needs of our people.” He further claimed that this marks the first instance in independent India’s history where so many welfare schemes are being implemented simultaneously and on such a large scale.
The schemes will initially target select villages in all mandals, with a full rollout planned for February. Beneficiary identification will continue until March, ensuring no eligible person is left out.
The issuance of ration cards will adopt a saturation approach, covering all applicants who have previously registered through socio-economic surveys, Praja Palana, Praja Vani, or Mee Seva centres. Those not listed can reapply at Praja Palana Seva Kendrams, and the process will continue until every eligible family is included.
After completing the process of issuing ration cards, Uttam Kumar Reddy said that the Congress government would provide quality fine rice free of cost to all Below Poverty Line (BPL) households.
Criticising the previous BRS regime for its neglect of food security, he stated, “This is a landmark initiative that corrects years of negligence. We are committed to ensuring that every eligible individual gets access to quality food and dignified living conditions.” (eom)
