Hyderabad:
The Congress has announced six guarantees if it comes to power in Telangana — in what now is becoming an increasingly familiar strategy. Buoyed by its massive victory in next-door Karnataka earlier this year, the Congress has announced provisions for all – women, farmers, youth, the elderly population and the homeless.
“I, along with my colleagues, had the opportunity to be part of the birth of this great state. Now it is our duty to take it to a new height,” said former party chief Sonia Gandhi while making the announcement.
“It has been my dream to see the Congress government in Telangana that will work for all sections of society. Are you all going to give us your support?” she asked the people.
Telangana was formed in 2013 when the UPA was still in power after Mrs Gandhi gave the assurance for the formation of a new state. The decades-long agitation was spearheaded by K Chandrasekhar Rao, who helmed the state since its creation and is hoping for a third straight term in power.
The biggest announcement is for the women in the southern state — the Mahalakshmi scheme — not only involves Rs 500 subsidised gas and free travel in state transport buses, it also includes a financial Rs 2,500 per month.
The scheme for farmers include the a Rs 15,000 annual grant, Rs 500 bonus for paddy crops and Rs 12,000 for agricultural laborers.
Under the Gruha Jyothi Guarantee, all households will receive 200 units of free electricity and under Indiramma Indlu Guarantee, those without their own homes will be provided house sites and Rs 5 lakh.
Those who were involved in the statehood movement, will receive 250 sq yard plots.
The schemes for students and young people will include Vidya Bharosa Cards worth Rs 5 lakh, and an International School in every mandal.
The elderly will get a monthly pension of Rs 4,000 and Rs 10 lakh coverage under the Rajiv Arogyasri insurance.
