HYDERABAD: As the April 14 deadline approaches for applications under the Telangana government’s flagship Rajiv Yuva Vikasam self-employment scheme, lakhs of unemployed youth are expressing concern over delays in receiving mandatory caste and income certificates.
Over six lakh applications for these certificates remain pending at Tahsildar offices across the state. The delays are attributed to overwhelming demand, with more than 16 lakh requests submitted through MeeSeva centres, of which only around 10 lakh have been approved so far.
With government offices closed for the second Saturday, Sunday, and Ambedkar Jayanti on Monday, applicants are questioning how their requests will be processed in time.
Heavy Response to Long-Awaited Scheme
This is the first time in six years that the state has reopened applications for a self-employment scheme, prompting massive interest among unemployed youth. The scheme offers unit allocations valued up to ₹4 lakh with attractive subsidies, further fuelling the rush.
Although the application process began on March 15, initial uncertainty prevailed over categories, loan limits, and subsidy structures. It was only on March 25 that the government issued detailed guidelines. Applications from Economically Backward Classes (EBC) were accepted thereafter, with a requirement for caste certificates issued specifically through MeeSeva.
As a result, many who already possessed older certificates reapplied through MeeSeva, leading to a surge in demand. Additionally, since income certificates are only issued to ration card holders, those without them also filed new applications, adding to the backlog.
Administrative Backlog and Holiday Hurdles
The implementation of scheme guidelines coincided with several public holidays—Ramzan, Ugadi, and Jagjivan Ram Jayanti—further slowing processing at revenue offices. With April 12, 13, and 14 being non-working days, nearly six lakh applicants without the necessary documentation are now left anxious.
On Friday, large crowds of hopeful youth gathered outside government offices, hoping to receive their documents before the deadline.
Technical Issues on OBMMS Portal
Meanwhile, the OBMMS portal designed for submitting applications under Rajiv Yuva Vikasam has been plagued by server errors. Applicants frequently report “server error” messages during the submission process, with each application taking over 30 minutes due to system slowdowns.
Frustrated applicants are calling on the government to either extend the deadline or ensure the swift clearance of pending documents to allow them a fair chance at availing the benefits of the long-awaited scheme.
