Hyderabad: Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy on Monday launched Spandana response teams at the Integrated Command and Control Centre to strengthen safety systems for women and children.
Minister Seethakka, DGP Jitender and Hyderabad Police Commissioner C.V. Anand attended the programme.
Spandana response teams to provide 24/7 support
Addressing the gathering, Revanth Reddy said ensuring safety for women and children remains a core responsibility of any government. He added that nations prioritising this sector progress faster.
He also noted that India granted voting rights to women immediately after Independence. Therefore, he said, the country showed an early commitment to equality.
The Chief Minister said Telangana already runs SHE Teams and the “Stand With Her” programme. Now, with Spandana response teams, the government will provide round-the-clock psychological and institutional support.
He said the initiative aims to build confidence among women. As a result, women will feel assured that the government stands firmly by them in distress.
Spandana response teams drive women empowerment agenda
Revanth Reddy said women’s empowerment remains central to the state’s development agenda. Accordingly, the government allots Indiramma houses in women’s names.
He added that the state promotes economic independence through multiple schemes. So far, it has extended ₹60,000 crore in bank loans to 67 lakh Self-Help Group women.
He said one crore women received Indiramma sarees. In addition, the government spent ₹10,000 crore on free bus travel for women over 28 months.
The Chief Minister said authorities procured 1,000 buses for SHGs and leased them to RTC. Moreover, the government allotted 1,000 MW solar projects to women’s groups.
He said SHG women operate Indiramma canteens in government offices. At the same time, the state built infrastructure for SHGs across districts.
He cited petrol bunks run by women in Narayanpet. He also noted that women’s groups manage 26,000 government schools and stitch uniforms for 26 lakh students.
Spandana response teams linked to safety and growth goals
Revanth Reddy said the government supports women entrepreneurs through Women Shakti stalls near Hitech City. Additionally, it partnered with Amazon to market their products.
He said Telangana aims to become a $1 trillion economy by 2034. It also targets a $3 trillion economy by 2047. Therefore, he stressed that women’s safety and empowerment remain essential.
Raising concern over drug abuse, he said substance use drives crimes against women and children. Consequently, the government formed the Eagle Force to act against such offences.
He said authorities act strictly without exception, even against influential individuals. Meanwhile, he called for expanding the role of peace committees to tackle drug-related issues.
The Chief Minister emphasised awareness and preventive steps. For instance, he suggested self-declarations by students against drug use.
He said the government will act firmly against criminals regardless of status. Hence, it will not tolerate lawlessness.
Revanth Reddy said Telangana will emerge as a model state for women’s safety. He also released the Spandana poster on the occasion.