HYDERABAD: Governor Dr. Jishnu Dev Varma, while addressing the joint session of the Telangana Legislature, outlined the government’s vision for the state’s development. He emphasized the administration’s commitment to inclusive growth, economic expansion, technological advancement, and social justice. The Governor stated that the government remains focused on immediate priorities while also laying the foundation for long-term progress.
Immediate Priorities: Strengthening Key Sectors
The Governor highlighted that the government’s primary focus is on strengthening agriculture, empowering women, and boosting employment. He announced that the ₹2 lakh crop loan waiver would benefit over 25.35 lakh farmers, amounting to ₹20,616.89 crore. He further explained that the Rythu Bharosa scheme had been enhanced, offering direct financial assistance of ₹12,000 per acre annually. Additionally, he noted that under the Indiramma Aathmeeya Bharosa scheme, landless agricultural laborers would receive ₹12,000 annually to improve their economic stability.
The Governor stressed that women’s empowerment remains a top priority for the state. He pointed out that the Mahalakshmi Scheme had facilitated 149.63 crore free bus rides, saving women approximately ₹5,005.95 crore in transportation costs. He further stated that the Indira Mahila Shakti Mission aims to create one crore women entrepreneurs, with a financial assistance target of ₹1 lakh crore. Additionally, he announced that a 1,000 MW solar power project had been designated for self-help groups (SHGs) led by women, positioning them as key contributors to the renewable energy sector.
Speaking about employment initiatives, Varma mentioned that the government had successfully filled over 55,000 government jobs through a transparent recruitment process. He highlighted the launch of the Young India Skill University and Advanced Technology Centers (ATCs), which aim to equip youth with globally competitive skills. He also explained that under the Rajiv Gandhi Civils Abhaya Hastham Scheme, civil services aspirants would receive ₹1 lakh in financial assistance per candidate.
Past Achievements: Laying a Strong Foundation
The Governor praised Telangana’s progress in agriculture, stating that the state had emerged as the top paddy producer in the country, achieving a record-breaking production of 260 lakh metric tonnes. He highlighted that 566 Rythu Vedikas and 532 operational Rythu Nestham centers had been established in rural areas to provide farmers with direct access to expert advice and administrative support. He also mentioned that a ₹500 per quintal bonus had been introduced for Sannarakam paddy, ensuring greater financial security for farmers.
Varma underscored the state’s achievements in healthcare, explaining that the Aarogyasri scheme had been expanded, increasing health insurance coverage from ₹5 lakh to ₹10 lakh per family, while also adding 163 new medical procedures. He stated that under the Gruha Jyoti scheme, 50 lakh families consuming up to 200 units of electricity were now receiving free power. Additionally, he highlighted that subsidized LPG cylinders at ₹500 had been provided to 43 lakh families, easing financial burdens on households.
Discussing education reforms, the Governor said that the government had implemented a 40% hike in diet charges for students in government hostels, a 200% increase in cosmetic allowances, and improved meal plans to ensure better nutrition. He explained that the Amma Adarsha Pathashala initiative had been introduced to empower self-help groups to manage school infrastructure, sanitation, and midday meal services. He further announced that the Integrated Residential Schools Scheme had been launched to provide quality education to SC, ST, BC, and minority students.
The Governor also spoke about Telangana’s cultural preservation efforts. He noted that the adoption of “Jaya Jayahe Telangana Janani Jaya Ketanam” as the official state song and the unveiling of the Telangana Thalli statue reaffirm the region’s rich heritage and inclusive spirit.
Future Plans: Transforming Telangana into a Model State
Looking ahead, Varma outlined the government’s ambitious plans for the state’s transformation. He announced that the Bhu Bharathi Act would be introduced to streamline land administration, mitigate disputes, and provide legal security for landowners. Additionally, he stated that the proposed Telangana Social Justice Bill aims to implement 42% reservations for Backward Classes, based on socio-economic data. He also mentioned that a new bill was being planned for the sub-categorization of Scheduled Castes, ensuring a fair distribution of benefits.
The Governor highlighted that Telangana’s industrial sector is poised for rapid expansion, with investments worth ₹1,78,950 crore secured through the World Economic Forum, which is expected to generate 49,500 new jobs. He stated that the state is positioning itself as India’s AI and data center hub, with IT hubs expanding beyond Hyderabad. Additionally, he pointed out that a ₹50 crore Yarn Depot had been established in Rajanna Siricilla District to support power loom workers. He further explained that under the Indira Mahila Shakti Scheme, two sarees would be provided annually to 64.70 lakh self-help group women.
Tourism is another key focus, the Governor said. He announced the launch of the Telangana Tourism Promotion Policy, which aims to develop unexplored tourism circuits, promote temple and tribal tourism, and revitalize historic landmarks. He explained that investments in digital technology and better amenities would enhance visitor experiences, making Telangana a premier tourism destination.
Speaking on clean energy initiatives, Varma stated that the Clean and Green Energy Policy-2025 outlines a roadmap for expanding solar, wind, and hydropower projects. He mentioned that the government plans to establish 6,000 EV charging stations by 2030 and develop green hydrogen infrastructure to support sustainable energy initiatives.
Urban Infrastructure and Governance Reforms
The Governor announced that the Future City project, covering 765 sq. km across 56 villages, would be launched as a smart urban initiative. He explained that the project, strategically located between Srisailam and Nagarjunasagar Highways, would integrate AI, pharma, and manufacturing clusters, creating employment opportunities and enhancing the quality of life. He also stated that the Musi River Rejuvenation Project and metro rail expansions were aimed at modernizing Telangana’s urban landscape.
Varma also addressed the government’s efforts to strengthen public administration and safety. He revealed that the Telangana Police Department was undergoing modernization and that the Young India Police School had been established in Rangareddy District to provide quality education to the children of police personnel. Additionally, he announced that the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), comprising 2,000 personnel, had been formed to ensure rapid emergency response during natural disasters.
To promote transparency in governance, the Governor stated that the government had conducted a comprehensive socio-economic and caste survey, ensuring that policy decisions are backed by accurate data. He also declared that February 4 would be observed as Telangana Social Justice Day, marking the state’s commitment to equity and fair representation.
A Commitment to Growth and Equality
Governor Jishnu Dev Varma concluded his address by reaffirming the government’s commitment to inclusive growth, economic expansion, and social welfare. He emphasized that Telangana aims to lead the nation in AI, clean energy, and industrial development. He called for collective efforts to realize Telangana’s vision, stating that the government remains dedicated to democracy, federalism, and inclusive governance, ensuring that the state continues to be a beacon of prosperity, equality, and progress.
