HYDERABAD: Telangana Government Advisor for SC, ST, OBC, and Minorities Mohammed Ali Shabbir has lauded Governor Jishnu Dev Varma’s address to the Telangana Legislature, calling it a significant roadmap for social justice and welfare. He praised the government’s commitment to uplifting Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), Other Backward Classes (OBCs), and minorities through targeted welfare schemes and inclusive governance.
Shabbir Ali emphasised that the Governor’s address reaffirmed Telangana’s leadership in social welfare and inclusive development. He stated that the government has placed a strong focus on economic and social justice, ensuring that marginalized communities have improved access to education, jobs, healthcare, and financial assistance.
“The Governor’s speech proves that Telangana is setting new benchmarks in welfare governance. The government is not just making promises—it is delivering real benefits to disadvantaged communities,” he said.
He also commended the Congress government’s data-driven approach, highlighting the recent Socio-Economic, Educational, Employment, Political, and Caste Survey. He explained that this survey collected precise data on marginalized communities, ensuring that welfare schemes reach those who need them most.
“For the first time, governance is based on real statistics, not assumptions,” he stated.
42% Reservation and SC Sub-Categorization
Quoting from the Governor’s speech, Shabbir Ali welcomed the proposed 42% reservation for Backward Classes (BCs) in education and jobs, which is based on the survey’s findings. He also backed the new Bill for sub-categorization of Scheduled Castes (SCs), introduced in line with the recommendations of the Justice Shameem Akther Commission.
“These steps will ensure a fairer distribution of reservation benefits and better representation for backward communities,” he said.
Shabbir Ali highlighted the Indira Mahila Shakti Mission, a transformational program for underprivileged women. The mission aims to empower one crore women entrepreneurs through a Rs 1 lakh crore financial package, creating sustainable livelihood opportunities. Under this initiative, women-led Self-Help Groups (SHGs) will manage canteens, manufacture school uniforms, and run vocational training centres.
The Gruha Jyoti scheme, which provides free electricity for families consuming up to 200 units, has benefited nearly 50 lakh low-income families. Similarly, the Rs 500 LPG cylinder subsidy has provided relief to 43 lakh households, easing financial burdens for daily wage earners.
“These measures are essential for ensuring economic stability for poor families,” Shabbir Ali remarked.
The Congress government has expanded Integrated Residential Schools for SC, ST, OBC, and minority students, offering free, high-quality education. The Amma Adarsha Pathashala initiative has strengthened community participation, allowing Self-Help Groups to manage school infrastructure.
In addition, the government has increased diet charges in government hostels by 40% and cosmetic allowances by 200%, significantly improving living conditions for students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
To enhance employability, the government has launched Young India Skill University, which will train youth in industry-relevant skills. The Rajiv Gandhi Civils Abhaya Hastham Scheme provides Rs 1 lakh financial aid to civil services aspirants from SC, ST, OBC, and minority communities, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder their ambitions.
Looking ahead, the government will observe Telangana Social Justice Day on February 4, reaffirming its commitment to equitable growth. It also plans to expand economic support for minorities, providing financial aid for housing, education, and business development.
Additionally, a structured employment drive will be launched to create job opportunities for SC, ST, OBC, and minority youth in both government and private sectors.
Shabbir Ali stated that Telangana’s governance model is one of the most inclusive in India, ensuring that all sections of society benefit from the state’s progress.
“The government, headed by Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy, is turning social justice from an idea into reality for millions. The Governor’s speech reaffirms our commitment to equity, dignity, and prosperity for all,” he said.
