Telangana Govt to launch new women-centric schemes on International Women’s Day
The Telangana government, led by Minister Seethakka, will introduce new women empowerment schemes on International Women’s Day, including solar power projects, RTC bus ownership, and financial aid for self-help groups.
HYDERABAD: The Telangana government is set to celebrate International Women’s Day on March 8 with a series of new women-centric initiatives aimed at economic and social empowerment. Minister for Panchayat Raj, Rural Development, and Women & Child Welfare, Dr. Danasari Anasuya Seethakka, chaired a high-level meeting at the Secretariat on Saturday to finalize the preparations for the event.
The grand celebrations will take place at Parade Grounds in Secunderabad, where Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, along with the Deputy Chief Minister and other ministers, will be present. The event is expected to witness the participation of one lakh women and will highlight the contributions of rural women to Telangana’s economy.
Key Announcements & Initiatives
Solar Power Plants
- The Chief Minister will virtually inaugurate solar power plants established by women’s self-help groups in all 32 districts.
- Each district will have a 2 MW plant, contributing to a total solar capacity of 64 MW.
RTC Bus Ownership Scheme
- Women’s self-help groups (SHGs) will purchase RTC buses and lease them to the corporation.
- The Chief Minister will flag off the first batch of 50 buses.
Expansion of Women-Run Petrol Pumps
- Inspired by the Narayanpet model, petrol pumps operated by women’s groups will be set up in all 31 districts.
- The state government is in the process of finalizing agreements with BPCL, HPCL, and IOCL for this initiative.
Financial Assistance & Insurance for SHGs
- Zero-interest loans will be provided to women’s self-help groups.
- ₹40 crore will be allocated as accident insurance to support the families of 400 deceased SHG members.
Anganwadi Recruitment Drive
Indira Mahila Shakti-2025 Policy Launch
- A comprehensive policy aimed at strengthening women’s empowerment in Telangana will be introduced.
Driving Training & Subsidized Vehicles
- Women who have completed government-sponsored driving training programs will receive subsidized auto-rickshaws.
Additionally, the Telangana government is considering merging SERP (Society for Elimination of Rural Poverty) and MEPMA (Mission for Elimination of Poverty in Municipal Areas) to streamline the implementation of women empowerment programs. Minister Seethakka has directed officials to study successful models from other states to formulate one of the most comprehensive women’s empowerment policies in the country.
