Shabbir Ali lauds Bhatti for presenting a pro-farmer, pro-welfare budget

Hyderabad, July 25:

Shabbir Ali highlighted the allocation of Rs 72,659 crores for agriculture and allied sectors, emphasizing the Congress government's recognition of agriculture as the backbone of the state's economy. He also noted the historic allocation of Rs 31,000 crores to waive crop loans up to Rs 2 lakhs for nearly 40 lakh farmers, describing it as unprecedented. He remarked that no state in the country could match this move, which would be remembered in history.

"The Telangana Budget reflects a strong commitment to social justice and inclusive growth, with significant allocations and targeted programs for minorities, Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Backward Classes (BC). The government allocated Rs 33,124 crores for the Scheduled Castes Sub-Plan (SCSP) and Rs 17,056 crores for the Tribal Sub-Plan (STSP), ensuring dedicated funding for these communities. The budget also proposes constructing BT roads to all ST hamlets, gudems, and Chenchu pentas, along with building Gram Panchayat offices in all ST habitations designated as Gram Panchayats by the previous government. Funds have been allocated to preserve and celebrate tribal culture through festivals like Samakka Saralamma Medaram, Santh Sevalal Jayanthi, and Nagoba Jathara," he said.

Shabbir Ali welcomed the allocation of Rs 3,003 crores for minority welfare, focusing on education and economic opportunities. He noted that only Rs 2,200 crores were allocated in the Vote-on-Account budget presented in February, but the amount was increased to Rs 3,003 crores in the full budget to honour the promise made in the Minority Declaration. Overall spending on minority welfare is expected to exceed Rs 5,000 crores, as many minorities will benefit from common schemes. For instance, the government proposes establishing integrated residential schools with international-standard facilities for students of all Gurukulas, including ST, SC, BC, Minority, and general categories.

Additionally, Shabbir Ali highlighted the allocation of Rs 10,000 crores for the development of Hyderabad, which would benefit lakhs of minorities as they constitute nearly 30-35% of the total population. He also welcomed the allocation of Rs 9,200 crores for BC welfare, focusing on economic empowerment and social upliftment.

"The Telangana budget demonstrates a multi-pronged approach to social welfare, addressing the specific needs of marginalized communities through dedicated funding, targeted programs, and a commitment to social justice," Shabbir Ali said.