Telangana Society SPMB

1.      Definition:

·       The Vetti system involves extracting agricultural and domestic services forcibly without remuneration, leading to exploitation.

·       Vetti means forced labor or Bhegar.

2.      Historical Context:

·       Originates from socio-economic and caste-based structures.

·       Balutedars (certain sections identified by Nizam government) were given Balutha Inam lands and served villages, but lost lands and became forced laborers over time.

3.      Impact on Marginalized Communities:

·       Primarily impacted Dalits and lower castes, forced to provide labor to landlords in exchange for no compensation.

·       Exploitation extended to girls and women, highlighting gender-based abuse.

4.      Criticism:

·       Criticized for perpetuating exploitation and maintaining socio-economic inequalities, hindering economic mobility.

5.      Efforts for Eradication:

·       Legislative measures and social initiatives have been introduced to abolish the Vetti system, but their effectiveness varies across regions.

6.      Relevance:

·       The Vetti system serves as a reminder of historical inequality, with ongoing efforts needed to foster inclusive societies.

Baghela System

·       Definition: Landlords provided loans to landless Dalits with high-interest rates and took forced labor services till the loan was repaid.

·       Impact: If a person could not repay the loan in his lifetime, family members were compelled to serve the landlord until the debt was cleared.

1.      M.S. Rajalingam:

o   In his autobiography, he described the exploitation and vulnerable lives of people under the Vetti system.

2.      Nizam Osman Ali Khan (1911):

o   Abolished the Vetti and Bhegar systems.

3.      Bhagya Reddy Varma:

o   Wrote the first Dalit story in Telugu, titled “Vetti Madiga.”

4.      Andhra Mahasabha:

o   In its 1st, 6th, and 7th sessions, it passed resolutions opposing the Vetti system.

Mallu Swarajyam

·        Born: 1931 in Kothagudem, Suryapet district.

·        Revolutionary Influence: Inspired by Maxim Gorky’s “Mother”.

·        Role: Fought against Vetti Chakiri following a call by Andhra Mahasabha.

·        Leadership: Became the commander of a Dalam fighting Zamindars, with a bounty of Rs. 10,000 on her head.

·        Family Influence: Guided by Mallu Venkat Narsimha Reddy (husband) and Bheem Reddy Narsimha Reddy (brother).

·        Land Redistribution: Seized lands from Zamindars and distributed them among the poor.

·        Political Career: Elected to Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly from Thungathurthy in 1978 and 1983.

Peesari Veeranna

·        1937: Opposed Gandhiji’s use of the term “Harijan”, arguing they were Adi-Hindus.

·        Advocacy: Fought against Vetti, encouraging villagers to reject forced labor.

Important Books on Vetti System

1.      Bollimuntha Shiva Rama Krishna – Mruthyu Needalu

2.      Dasarathi Rangacharya – Chillara Devullu

3.      Vattikota Alwar Swamy – Prajala Manishi, Gangu

·        Telangana People’s Armed Struggle:

o   Significant part of India’s freedom struggle and communist movement.

o   Revolt against feudal exploitation under Nizam’s rule in Hyderabad State.

o   Duration: 1946 to 1951.

Phases of the Struggle:

1.      Initial Phase:

o   Focused on Vetti system (forced labor) and eviction from land.

o   Dalits and lower castes were forced to perform free labor for landlords.

o   Landlords exploited people by forcing them into agricultural/domestic work without compensation.

2.      Second Phase:

o   Ouster of Nizam’s rule, establishment of village self-rule, and land redistribution to peasants.

o   The communists and AMS led Sanghams (village-level committees) to implement land reforms.

3.      Final Phase:

o   Safeguarding the gains of the rebellion, resisting feudal control, and eventual withdrawal of the movement by 1951.

Political and Communist Influence:

·        1920s Resistance: Suppression of Telugu language and local cultures led to organized opposition.

·        Andhra Mahasabha (AMS): Formed in 1928, demanded reduction in land revenue, abolition of Vetti, and use of Telugu in courts.

·        Post 1942, Communist Party of India (CPI) played a crucial role in organizing peasants and laborers.

·        By 1944, communists gained significant ground, forming Sanghams that advocated land rights for peasants.

Telangana Peasants’ Armed Struggle:

·        Known as Vetti Chakiri Udyamam or Telangana Raitanga Sayudha Poratam.

·        A communist-led armed rebellion against feudal lords and the Nizam’s rule.

·        Major demand: Land for the tiller and the abolition of bonded labor.

Leaders and Key Figures:

·        Mallu Swarajyam: Commander of the Dalams (armed groups), fought against landlords and led land distribution.

·        Peesari Veeranna: Opposed Gandhiji’s use of “Harijan” and advocated for the identity of “Adi-Hindus”; played a role in opposing Vetti and empowering Dalits.

Key Resolutions:

·        1st, 6th, and 7th Andhra Mahasabha: Passed resolutions demanding the abolition of Vetti.

Abolition:

·        Nizam Osman Ali Khan abolished the Vetti and Bhegar systems in 1911, though they persisted in some regions.

Impact of the Armed Struggle:

·        Led to the end of feudal landlordism in many regions of Telangana.

·        Redistribution of land to peasants marked a significant victory for the rebellion.

·        Inspired future movements for land reforms and labor rights across India.

·       Article 23(1): Prohibits trafficking and forced labor (begar) in any form. Any violation is punishable by law.

2.      Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act, 1976:

·       Objective: Abolish bonded labor in India.

·       Authority: District Magistrates are responsible for enforcing the Act.

·       Legal Provisions: Establishes trials for labor offenses at local and national levels.

·       Challenges: Despite the law, around 300,000 bonded laborers still existed in 2009 (Ministry of Labour and Employment report).

Recent Developments:

Bonded Laborers Released:

·       84% of India’s bonded laborers identified and released are from Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, Uttar Pradesh, and Andhra Pradesh.

·       Total Released: 3,15,302 bonded laborers released to date (as of January 2023).

·       Rehabilitation: 2,96,305 laborers rehabilitated from 1978 to 2023.

·        2016 Target: Central government aimed to release and rehabilitate 1.84 crore bonded laborers nationwide.

·        41st Lok Sabha Standing Committee Report (2022-23):

·       Lack of Progress: Despite advisories, states/UTs have made limited progress in eliminating bonded labor.

·       Committee’s Call: Urges reinforcement of monitoring mechanisms to eradicate bonded labor.

·       National Portal on Bonded Labor: Emphasized the need to launch a portal to track welfare measures for bonded laborers.

·       A barbaric tradition where girl children are dedicated to God.

·       Related to the Veera Shaiva tradition and Dravida culture.

·       Dalit women are primarily affected, highlighting a caste-based issue.

Cultural Comparison:

·       Jogini system: Dravidian tradition, lower caste culture.

·       Devadasi system: Linked to Aryan tradition and upper castes.

Historical Context:

·       Emerged after the Kakatiya downfall and spread from Basavirandra region (Karnataka) to United Andhra Pradesh.

·       Jogini: Women married to a goddess.

·       Basavi: Women married to a male god.

Exploitative Practice:

·       Sexual exploitation of women under the guise of religion and tradition.

·       Seen as “prostitution in the name of religion”.

Historical Mentions:

·       “Jogimara” inscription (3rd century B.C.) in Chhattisgarh mentions Jogini and Devadasi systems.

·       French preacher Abbe Dubois noted the tradition in his book “Hindu Manners, Customs, and Ceremonies”.

Regional Focus:

·       Majority of Joginis are in Karimnagar district, where they are called “Parvati”.

·       Khammam is the only district in Telangana without the Jogini system.

Research:

·       Hemalatha Lavanam conducted extensive research on the Jogini system.

Theogamy:

·       The practice of dedicating women to goddesses is referred to as Theogamy.

Organizations for Eradication of Jogini System

Samskar (1974, Vijayawada):

Chairman: Lavanam, Secretary: Hemalatha Lavanam.

·       Focused on changing the individual and social lives of Joginis and eradicating the system.

·       Chelli Nilayam (1987): A home for Joginis in Varni, Nizamabad.

·       Helped organize Jogini marriages at Raj Bhavan in 1990 and 1999.

·       Efforts supported by AP Devadasi (Prohibition of Dedication) Act, 1988.

NISA (National Institute of Social Action):

·       Founded by Kumud Ben Joshi, then Governor of United AP.

·       Hosted National Conference on Jogini Development (1987, New Delhi).

Aashray (1993):

·       Founded by Grace Nirmala.

·       Rescued teenage girls from becoming Joginis and provided them with education.

·       Runs the newspaper “Dalit” to raise awareness among Joginis.

Jagan Mitra Mandali (1906):

·       Established by Bhagya Reddy Varma to eradicate Devadasi and Jogini systems in Hyderabad Province.

·       Efforts by Assistant Collector Appa Rao (1980) and Collector Asha Murthy (1985, Nizamabad) for rehabilitation.

Government Initiatives:

AP Devadasis (Prohibition of Dedication) Act, 1988:

·       Prohibits the dedication of girls as Jogini, Devadasi, Basavi, etc.

·       Punishes dedication with imprisonment.

·       Devadasi: A girl dedicated to serve a deity in a temple for life.

·       Dedication Ceremony: Resembles marriage, called “Pottukitt”.

Origin & Background:

·       Dates back to the 6th century.

·       Roles: Temple caretakers, performing rituals, dance, and music (e.g., Bharatanatyam, Odissi).

·       Held high status in society as music and dance were integral to temple worship.

·       Devadasis: Experts in literature, fine arts, singing, and dancing. Dance forms include Sadar, Darbar Play, and Nettuva Melam.

·       Matriarchal System: Followed in the Devadasi tradition.

·       Muslim Equivalent: Girls dedicated to Dargahs are referred to as Achyuthis. A girl married to the Quran is called a “Bibi.”

Decline:

·       Mughal & British influence led to the destruction of temples and deterioration of the Devadasi status.

·       Exploitation and degradation of Devadasis and their children, who were often forced into the same tradition.

Present-Day Challenges:

·       Despite Supreme Court orders to abolish the practice, the tradition persists in some parts of India.

·       Religious Beliefs: Families dedicate daughters believing it will bring blessings from the deity.

·       Social Status: Economically weak families hope the dedication will improve their status.

·       Lack of Enforcement: Some states haven’t fully enforced laws to eradicate the practice.

·       Superstition and lineage continuation also contribute to its persistence.

Struggle Against Devadasi System:

·       Bhagya Reddy Varma: Fought against the Devadasi and Jogini system through his organization, Manya Sangam.

·       Research on Devadasi in Telangana by Narayana Swamy, Gadiyaram Ramakrishna, and Kala Krishna.

·       Muthu Lakshmi Reddy and Raghupati Venkata Ratnam Naidu (from Tamil Nadu) also fought against the Devadasi system.

Government Initiatives:

·       Article 23: Abolishes Vetti Chakiri (bonded labor) and the Devadasi system.

·       Article 24: Prohibits human trafficking.

Acts and Legislation:

·       Prevention of Dedication of Women Act (1930): Criminalized dedicating girls as Devadasis, aiming to prevent their exploitation.

·       Devadasi Abolition Act (1947): Abolished the Devadasi system, prohibiting dedicating women to temples and penalizing those involved.

·       P. Raghunath Rao Commission: A single-member commission, appointed by CM N. Kiran Kumar Reddy, to study the forced dedication of girls and their living conditions under the Devadasi and Jogini system.

Education:

·       Initiatives: Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalaya (KGBV) and Right to Education Act boost girls’ education.

·       Challenges: Increased enrollment rates, but dropout rates at secondary level persist due to poverty, social norms, and lack of quality schooling.

Healthcare:

·       Government Schemes: Focus on maternal and child healthcare, nutrition programs, and immunization.

·       Issues: Malnutrition, anemia, and limited access to quality healthcare, especially in rural areas.

Child Marriage:

·       Ongoing Concern: Despite legal prohibitions, child marriage remains prevalent, particularly in rural and economically disadvantaged areas.

·       Efforts: Enforcement of laws, awareness campaigns, and empowerment through education and skills training.

Empowerment:

·       Programs: Skill development, vocational training, and leadership initiatives.

·       Support: Telangana State Resource Centre for Women and Girls focuses on holistic development.

Safety and Security:

·       Measures: Women and child safety cells, gender-based violence awareness, and strict law enforcement against crimes.

·       Goal: Creating an environment where girls feel safe, empowered, and able to access their rights.

Female Infanticide and Feticide:

o   Illegal practices still persist in parts of Telangana.

o   Driven by preference for male children due to cultural and economic reasons.

o   Leads to neglect, abandonment, or selective abortion of female fetuses.

Child Marriage:

o   Significant concern in rural areas and among economically disadvantaged communities.

o   Early marriages deprive girls of education and personal development.

o   Increases the risk of early pregnancy and health complications.

Gender-Based Violence:

o   Girls face domestic violence, sexual abuse, trafficking, and exploitation.

o   Gender inequality and societal norms perpetuate violence.

o   Cases often go unreported or inadequately addressed by the legal system.

Discrimination in Education:

o   Lower enrollment and higher dropout rates among girls.

o   Barriers include poverty, lack of infrastructure, and gender bias.

o   Limited access to quality education for girls.

Lack of Healthcare Access:

o   Girls face barriers to reproductive healthcare, nutrition, and sanitation.

o   Socioeconomic factors and poor healthcare infrastructure contribute to health disparities.

Trafficking and Exploitation:

o   Girls are vulnerable to trafficking for forced labor, domestic servitude, and sexual exploitation.

o   Factors such as poverty, lack of education, and social marginalization increase vulnerability.

Efforts Required:

·        Legislative measures and enforcement of laws.

·        Community awareness, empowerment programs, and education initiatives.

·        Collaborative efforts from government, civil society, and communities.

Launched: 2015 under Beti Bachao Beti Padhao initiative.

Objective: Promote girl child education and savings.

Eligibility:

·       Indian residents.

·       Girl child under 10 years old at the time of account opening.

·       One SSY account per girl, up to two accounts per family.

·       NRIs not eligible.

·        Operation: Account to be operated by girl child after turning 18 years.

Deposits:

·       Minimum deposit: Rs. 250.

·       Maximum deposit: Rs. 1.5 lakh annually.

·       Scheme matures after 21 years.

·        Withdrawals: 50% withdrawal allowed after girl turns 18 or passes 10th standard for education.

·        Tax Benefits: Deduction up to Rs. 1.5 lakh under Section 80C.

Balika Samridhi Yojana:

·        Similar to SSY, limited scope for girl child savings.

Eligibility:

·       Newborn girl children, belonging to Below Poverty Line (BPL) families.

·       Two daughters per family can participate.

Benefits:

·       Rs. 500 at birth.

·       Annual scholarships from Rs. 300 to Rs. 1000 until Grade X.

·        Accounts: Can be opened at authorized banks, enrollment till girl reaches 10 years.

Kishori Shakti Yojana (KSY):

·        Under the ambit of: Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS).

·        Aim: Empowerment and holistic development of adolescent girls (11-18 years) through Balika Mandals.

Objectives:

1.      Education: Provide literacy and numeric skills through non-formal education.

2.      Decision-Making: Enhance social exposure and improve decision-making abilities.

3.      Health & Nutrition: Improve nutritional, health, and development status, and promote awareness on health, hygiene, and family care.

4.      Life Skills & Vocational Training: Link girls to life skills training, home-based, and vocational skills to enhance self-reliance.

5.      Social Understanding: Help girls better understand their social environment and become productive members of society.

Target Group:

• Adolescent girls (11-18 years).
• Includes both school-going and out-of-school girls.

Coverage:

• Implemented in 21 districts except where the SABLA scheme is operational.

Goal: Empower girl child and ensure her education.

Objectives:

1.      Prevention of gender-biased sex-selective elimination.

2.      Ensure survival and protection of the girl child.

3.      Promote education and participation of girls.

Eligibility:

Girl child under 10 years.

·       Sukanya Samriddhi Account (SSA) in a bank.

·       Indian citizen.

Benefits:

1.      Financial aid for girl’s education.

2.      Promote self-sufficiency through education.

3.      Encourage right age marriage.

4.      Access to education for girls.

Steps to Protect Girl Child in Telangana:

Legislative Measures:

·       Strengthen and enforce laws against female infanticide, child marriage, and gender-based violence.

·       Ensure swift law enforcement.

Education and Awareness:

·       Promote girls’ education through campaigns and incentives (scholarships, free textbooks).

·       Conduct awareness programs on child marriage and gender violence.

·       Implement Mana Ooru Mana Badi and Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas for quality education.

Healthcare Access:

·       Improve reproductive healthcare, nutrition, and sanitation for girls.

·       Enhance healthcare infrastructure in rural areas.

·       Telangana KCR Kit provides healthcare services to pregnant women and newborn girls.

Economic Empowerment:

·       Provide skill development, vocational training, and income-generating activities.

·       Promote entrepreneurship and financial literacy.

·       Shaadi Mubarak Scheme offers financial assistance for weddings, particularly for minority girls.

Community Engagement:

·       Engage religious leaders and local influencers to change social norms.

·       Promote gender-sensitive values.

Protection Services:

·       Set up helplines, shelters, and counseling services for girls at risk.

·       Train frontline workers (police, healthcare professionals) to handle violence cases.

Monitoring and Evaluation:

·       Track progress through data and evaluation.

·       Use the Hawkeye app for reporting harassment and violence.

·        Fluorosis is a significant health issue in Telangana caused by excessive fluoride accumulation due to prolonged exposure, particularly through fluoride-contaminated groundwater.

Effects of Fluorosis in Telangana

Dental Fluorosis:

·       Common among children.

·       Discoloration, pitting, and weakening of enamel.

·       Aesthetic issues and susceptibility to dental decay.

Skeletal Fluorosis:

·       Prolonged fluoride exposure affects bones and joints.

·       Causes joint pain, stiffness, limited mobility, and skeletal deformities, especially in older individuals.

Impaired Joint Functionality:

·       Leads to reduced joint mobility.

·       Affects daily activities and quality of life.

Decreased Bone Density:

·       Fluoride accumulation weakens bones.

·       Increased fracture risk, particularly concerning for the elderly.

Neurological Effects:

·       Potential link between fluoride exposure and cognitive issues.

·       Concerns about neurological development, especially in children.

Reduced Work Productivity:

·       Physical debilitation from fluorosis lowers work capacity.

·       Economic hardship, especially in rural manual labor-intensive regions.

Impact on Children’s Growth:

·       Fluorosis affects bone development in children.

·       Long-term health issues due to impaired growth.

Psychosocial Impact:

·       Visible signs of dental fluorosis cause stigma and psychological distress.

·       Affects self-esteem, especially among children and adolescents.

Prevention & Mitigation:

Educational Campaigns:

·       Focus on water safety and hygiene practices to raise awareness about fluoride contamination.

Alternative Water Sources:

·       Promote safe drinking water solutions in rural communities where access to uncontaminated water is limited.

Impact:

·        Long-term exposure to fluoride leads to serious health consequences, with children and rural populations being most affected.

·        Preventive efforts and public health initiatives are needed to address fluoride contamination and protect vulnerable groups.

Geological Composition: Fluoride-bearing minerals in Telangana’s rocks dissolve into groundwater, elevating fluoride levels.

Hydrogeological Conditions: Fluoride concentration rises due to groundwater flow through fluoride-rich aquifers.

Weathering of Rocks: Natural erosion of fluoride-rich rocks releases fluoride into water sources.

Agricultural Practices: Use of phosphate fertilizers and pesticides contributes to fluoride contamination.

Groundwater Overexploitation: Overuse of groundwater increases fluoride concentration due to a lowered water table.

Lack of Alternative Water Sources: Communities rely on fluoride-contaminated groundwater due to limited safe water options.

Industrial Activities: Industrial effluents containing fluoride further contaminate local water sources when not treated properly.

WHO Standard on Fluoride in Drinking Water:

·        Fluoride Limit: Drinking water should not exceed 1.5 mg/l of fluoride, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

·        Unsafe Levels: Water with fluoride levels above 1.5 parts per million (ppm) is unsafe for consumption.

Fluorosis Risk in India:

·        Over 10 million people in India are at risk of disability due to high fluoride content in water.

·        Prolonged consumption of fluoride-contaminated water leads to dental, skeletal, and non-skeletal fluorosis.

Fluorosis Overview:

·       Affected Population: Over 19 lakh people in Nalgonda are at risk due to high fluoride levels in groundwater. 1,108 habitations severely affected.

District Fluoride Monitoring Centre (DFMC):

·        Established: November 14, 2013, by Nalgonda District Administration.

·        Objective: Coordinate efforts to mitigate/prevent fluorosis. First-of-its-kind initiative in India.

·        UNICEF Involvement: Supported technically and financially.

Key Impacts of DFMC Initiatives:

·        Groundwater Fluoride Reduction: Fluoride content in groundwater dropped by 50% due to groundwater level improvement through Mission Kakatiya and Mission Bhagiratha.

·       Mission Kakatiya: Restored 142 irrigation tanks, improving groundwater levels.

·       Mission Bhagiratha: Provided safe drinking water to fluoride-affected villages, reducing dependency on contaminated groundwater.

Groundwater Levels Improvement (2014-2022):

·        Marriguda: 14.35m (2015) → 4.07m (2022)

·        Chandur: 12.14m (2015) → 5.95m (2022)

·        Nampally: 7.49m (2015) → 4.46m (2022)

·        Munugode: 7.10m (2015) → 2.9m (2022)

Technological Advancements:

·        Fluoride Detection: Scientists at INST developed naked-eye fluoride detection technology for easy use at the household level, using chromophore-based technology.

·        Fluoride Removal Technology: CMERI’s High Flow Rate Fluoride & Iron Removal technology transferred to Capricans Aqua Pvt. Ltd, West Bengal.

National Programme for Prevention and Control of Fluorosis (NPPCF):

·        Launched in the 11th Five-Year Plan (2008-09).

·        Focuses on prevention, detection, and treatment of fluorosis.

Telangana Government Initiatives:

·        Mission Bhagiratha: Reduced reliance on fluoride-contaminated groundwater by supplying clean drinking water.

·        Mission Kakatiya: Restored irrigation tanks, boosting groundwater levels and reducing fluoride concentration.

·        Census of India: A child worker is one who works for the major part of the day and is below 14 years.

·        UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (1989): Defines a child as anyone under 18 years.

·        International Labour Organisation (ILO): Refers to children as those under 15 years.

·        India: Children above 14 years are legally allowed to be employed.

Child Labour in Telangana

Agricultural Sector:

·       Children are engaged in farming activities like planting, harvesting, and livestock rearing due to economic hardships in rural areas.

·       Families rely on child labour to supplement income.

Urban Informal Sector:

·       In urban areas, children work in construction, street vending, and domestic work.

·       Poverty, migration, and lack of access to quality education push children into labour.

Bonded Labour:

·       Despite legal prohibitions, bonded labour involving children persists.

·       Vulnerable families, trapped in cycles of debt, may use their children’s labour as repayment.

Lack of Access to Education:

·       Limited infrastructure, economic constraints, and lack of proper schools prevent children from attending school, pushing them into the workforce early.

Gender Disparities:

·       Girls are more likely to be engaged in labour due to gender disparities and traditional roles, limiting their educational opportunities.

Migration:

·       Economic migration increases the risk of child labour exploitation. Migrant families struggle to access education and protect children from hazardous work.

Inadequate Enforcement of Laws:

·       Despite existing laws, enforcement is weak due to limited resources, awareness, and at times corruption.

Hazardous Occupations:

·       Children in Telangana work in hazardous jobs such as brick kilns, exposing them to health risks and unsafe conditions.

Social and Cultural Factors:

·       Social norms and cultural acceptance of child labour in certain communities contribute to the issue.

·       Awareness campaigns and community interventions are needed to shift perceptions.

Labour Department:

·        Enforces Child Labour (P & R) Act, 1986 and related laws.

·        Supreme Court (1996): Directed strict enforcement and penalty for employers using child labour in hazardous sectors.

Inspections:

·        Regular joint inspections with Police, Revenue, Education, and Women & Child Welfare departments.

Rescue Operations:

·        Child labour rescue drives, children placed in Transit Homes, presented to Child Welfare Committees (CWC), and enrolled in schools.

Employer Prosecution:

·        Employers prosecuted under Sec. 3 and 14 of Child Labour Act, 1986.

Operation Muskaan/Smile 2:

·        Special rescue drive in 2015, rescuing 2,514 children.

State Resource Centre:

·        Develops strategies, monitors rehabilitation, and ensures educational and economic rehabilitation.

Child Labour in India:

Census 2011 Data:

10.1 million child labourers (5.6 million boys, 4.5 million girls).

·       42.7 million children not attending school.

Decline in Child Labour:

·       Child labour decreased by 2.6 million between 2001 and 2011.

·       3.9% of children are employed as main or marginal workers.

Gurupadswamy Committee (1979):

·       Investigated child labour and recommended a comprehensive policy.

World Day Against Child Labour:

·       Observed globally on June 12th since 2002, initiated by the International Labour Organization (ILO).

Hazardous Occupations:

·       62.8% of child labourers aged 14-17 are involved in hazardous tasks, primarily in agriculture.

Rural vs Urban:

·       Decline in rural child labour, but rise in urban areas due to demand in low-skilled jobs.

Top States for Child Labour:

·       Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh account for 55% of India’s child workers.

Definition of a Child:

·       A child is defined as anyone under 14 years of age.

Working Hours & Conditions:

·       Regulates children’s working hours and working conditions.

Prohibition:

·       Bans employment of children under 14 in 83 hazardous occupations and processes.

Regulation:

·       Controls the non-hazardous employment of children to ensure safe working environments.

Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2012:

·        Strengthened child labour laws, prohibited child labour under 14 years.

·        Exceptions: Family-based businesses and entertainment industry.

·        Aligned with international conventions for child rights.

·        Proposed penalties: Fines and imprisonment for employers.

Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2016:

• Defined “Child” as under 14 years, “Adolescent” as 14-18 years.
• Banned adolescent employment in hazardous occupations.
• Made child labour violations a cognizable offence.
• Empowered District Magistrate for enforcement.
• Created Child Labour Rehabilitation Fund.

Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Amendment Rules, 2017:

• Provided a detailed framework for prevention, rescue, and rehabilitation.
• Addressed family business involvement.
• Outlined state and district responsibilities.
• Introduced SOP for enforcement, shared with all states/UTs.

On Children:

·        Health Risks: Exposure to unsafe conditions, abuse, long hours → injuries, illnesses, stunted development.

·        Education Deprivation: Denies access to education, limiting future opportunities.

·        Stunted Development: Hinders physical, emotional, and social growth.

On Society:

·        Human Rights Violation: Denies children’s rights to safety, education, healthy environment.

·        Poverty and Inequality: Perpetuates poverty cycles, minimal earnings contribute to stagnation.

·        Social Breakdown: Disrupts family/community dynamics, fostering intergenerational poverty.

On the Nation:

·        Economic Impact: Reduces skilled workforce, productivity, and global competitiveness.

·        Human Capital Loss: Fewer educated, skilled citizens → affects long-term economic growth.

·        Social Welfare Burden: Increased healthcare, welfare costs strain government resources.

Child Labour Programs in India:

National Policy on Child Labour (1987):

·       Progressive rehabilitation approach for child/adolescent workers.

·       Legislative action, development programs, and a project-based action plan for child welfare.

Juvenile Justice Act (2015):

·       Provides care and protection for children; focuses on adoption reform.

National Child Labour Project (NCLP) Scheme (2007):

·       Rehabilitation of children in hazardous jobs; comprehensive child labour survey.

·        International Labour Organization (ILO) Conventions:

·       Convention 138: Minimum age for employment.

·       Convention 182: Elimination of worst forms of child labour.

·       Goal to eradicate child labour by 2025, in line with Sustainable Development Goal 8.7.

Key Initiatives:

Bachpan Bachao Andolan: Rescued 591 children during the lockdown from forced/bonded labour.

NGOs: CARE India, Child Rights and You, Global March Against Child Labour actively combating child exploitation.

PENCIL Portal:

·       Platform for Effective Enforcement of No Child Labour.

·       Connects Centre, States, Civil Society for child labour-free India.

·       Supports implementation of Child Labour Act and NCLP scheme.

·       4.14 crore inter-state migrant workers in India (37% of the total population).

2.      Migration in India Report (2020-21):

·       Migration rate: 28.9% (total), 26.5% (rural).

·       10.8% migrated due to employment-related reasons.

3.      Push and Pull Factors:

·       Pull Factors: Employment, better opportunities, social amenities, lifestyle, trade, economic expansion.

·       Push Factors: Overpopulation, religious/political persecution, slavery, food scarcity, discrimination, natural hazards, land fragmentation.

4.      Job-Related Migration:

·       Telangana and Himachal Pradesh have the highest share of job-related migrants.

·       Delhi and Maharashtra: 17% and 18% of urban male population.

5.      District-Level Migration:

·       Major urban areas receiving migrants: Gurugram, Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Indore.

·       States of out-migration: Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, Jharkhand.

6.      Source States of Migrant Labor to Telangana:

·       Bihar: Construction, agriculture, manufacturing.

·       Uttar Pradesh: Construction, infrastructure projects.

·       Odisha: Construction, agriculture, informal sector.

·       West Bengal: Laborers, masons, carpenters.

·       Jharkhand: Construction, mining, manufacturing.

·       Chhattisgarh: Agriculture, mining, manual labor.

·       Other states: Maharashtra, Karnataka.

7.      Significance of Migration:

·       Balances labor supply and demand.

·       Improves employment opportunities, economic growth, and living standards.

·       Migrants gain new skills, contribute remittances, and foster social unity.

8.      Problems of Migrant Labor in Telangana:

·       Economic vulnerability, poor living conditions, lack of access to social services, healthcare, and education

Exploitation and Low Wages:

·       Migrants face low wages, unfair working conditions, and labor law violations.

·       Lack of bargaining power makes them vulnerable to exploitation.

Poor Living Conditions:

·       Overcrowded, substandard settlements or labor camps with limited access to clean water, sanitation, and electricity.

·       These conditions increase health risks for workers and their families.

Lack of Social Protection:

·       Migrants often lack access to social security schemes, healthcare, and welfare benefits.

·       Temporary or informal employment status excludes them from government schemes.

Limited Job Security:

·       Employment is often on a daily wage or temporary basis, leading to job instability.

·       Workers are vulnerable to job loss, wage cuts, and employer exploitation.

Language and Cultural Barriers:

·       Language differences and cultural isolation hinder communication and integration into local communities.

·       Social exclusion based on ethnicity or region can worsen their situation.

Health Risks:

·       Migrants work in hazardous environments like construction, agriculture, and industry.

·       Limited access to healthcare and safety measures increases vulnerability to injuries and diseases.

Lack of Legal Awareness:

·       Migrants are often unaware of their legal rights, entitlements, and protections under labor laws.

·       Challenges in accessing legal aid and filing complaints hinder their ability to address labor rights violations.

Additional Challenges:

·        Inter-State Migrant Workmen Act, 1979: Inadequate enforcement leads to non-compliance with labor protections.

·        Social Security Gaps: Small businesses and the informal sector lack social security coverage, leaving workers exposed to arbitrary service conditions.

Key Solutions:

·        Strengthening labor laws and enforcement.

·        Improving living and working conditions.

·        Expanding social protection and awareness campaigns.

·        Collaborative efforts from government, employers, and civil society are essential.

One Nation One Ration Card (ONORC):

·       Food security scheme allowing migrant workers to access subsidized food grains from any fair price shop across India.

·       Ensures continuity of benefits for migrants and their families regardless of their location.

Inter-State Migrant Workmen Act, 1979:

·       Regulates employment and working conditions for inter-state migrant workers.

·       Provisions include registration of establishments, issuance of identity cards, and welfare measures like wages, accommodation, medical facilities, and transportation.

Building and Other Construction Workers Act, 1996:

·       Targets construction workers, including migrant laborers, by providing welfare boards for registration.

·       Provides financial assistance, healthcare, education, and housing benefits for workers and families.

Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maan-Dhan (PM-SYM):

·       Voluntary pension scheme for unorganized workers, including migrant laborers earning up to ₹15,000/month.

·       Offers a monthly pension of ₹3,000 after the age of 60.

Atal Beemit Vyakti Kalyan Yojana (ABV KY):

·       Unemployment benefit scheme for workers covered under the Employees’ State Insurance (ESI) Act.

·       Provides financial assistance for up to 90 days for involuntary job loss due to retrenchment, closure, or layoffs.

National Career Service (NCS):

·       Online platform connecting job seekers, including migrant workers, with employment opportunities and skill development programs.

·       Supports job matching, career counseling, and employment facilitation across sectors.

Skill Development Initiatives:

·       Programs like Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) provide training and certification for unskilled and semi-skilled workers.

·       Enhances employability and income-earning potential for migrant laborers in various sectors.

Key Objectives:

·        Address socio-economic vulnerabilities of migrant workers.

·        Improve livelihoods, social inclusion, and access to welfare benefits.

·        Collaboration between central and state governments, employers, trade unions, and civil society for effective implementation.

Telangana Migrant Workers Welfare Board:

• Purpose: Addresses welfare needs of migrant workers.
• Benefits: Provides financial assistance, healthcare services, education support, and skill development for migrant workers and their families.

Telangana Migrant Resource Centers:

• Role: Offers support services including information, counseling, legal aid, and grievance redressal.
• Assists migrant workers in accessing government schemes and entitlements.

Financial Assistance:

• Support in emergencies: Provided during accidents, natural disasters, or distress situations.
• Assistance for medical treatment, education expenses, and livelihood support.Top of FormBottom of Form

Definition: Child marriage refers to the marriage of girls below 18 years and boys below 21 years, violating Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006.

Consequences: It exposes children to violence, exploitation, abuse, and impacts their education, health, and protection rights.

• UNICEF View: Categorizes child marriage as a human rights violation.
• SDG 5.3: Elimination of child marriage is crucial for achieving gender equality and women empowerment by 2030.

Global and National Trends:

·        UN: 1 in 5 young women worldwide were married in childhood (2022).

·        India Data (2021):

o   1,050 cases under Prohibition of Child Marriage Act.

o   1,49,404 crimes against children, including Telangana’s 5,667 cases.

o   India ranks 13th in child crimes (4% of total cases).

·        NFHS-5: Median marriage age has increased:

o   Women: from 17.2 years (2005–06) to 19.2 years (2019–21).

o   Men: from 22.6 to 24.9 years.

·        Child Marriage Rates: Declined from 47.4% in 2005-06 to 23.3% in 2019-21. Younger women (18-19) child marriage rate reduced to 16.3%.

·        Rural vs Urban: Child marriage is more common in rural areas (48%) than urban areas (29%).

·        Ethnic Variations: Prevalence varies across castes, tribes, and excluded communities. Some tribal groups have lower rates.

·        Education Impact: A girl with 10 years of education is 6 times less likely to marry before 18.

·         Global Context: 40% of the world’s child marriages occur in India.

·        India ranks 14th globally in child marriage prevalence according to International Center for Research on Women.

Increase in Crimes Against Children:

·       In Telangana, there was a 35% increase in crimes against children in 2021 (from 4,200 in 2020).

·       However, the number of child marriage victims decreased by 8% (from 62 in 2020 to 57 in 2021).

2.      Trends in Telangana:

·       Victims of child marriage in Telangana increased from 35 in 2019 to 57 in 2021.

·       National child marriage rates reduced by 3.5% from 2015-16 to 2019-21, whereas in Telangana, the decrease was 2.7%.

3.      Census 2011 Data:

·       2.8 lakh children in Telangana were married before the legal age, representing 2% of all child marriages in India.

·       Only 154 cases were registered in Telangana under the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act (2019-21).

4.      Districts with High Child Marriage Rates:

·       Khammam, Hyderabad, Kamareddy, Mahabubabad, Medak, Nagarkurnool, Sangareddy, and Wanaparthy are districts with notable rates of child marriage.

5.      Government Schemes:

·       Kalyana Lakshmi and Shaadi Mubarak schemes have helped reduce child marriages.

·       Girls above 18 years from families with an annual income up to ₹2 lakh receive ₹1,00,116 for marriage.

·       Beneficiaries: 2,23,096 (SC), 1,36,567 (ST), 4,94,353 (BC), and 50,518 (EBC) families.

6.      Low Conviction Rate:

·       Child marriage conviction rates in India are very low at 10%.

·       Only 12 cases in 2019, 6 in 2020, and 10 in 2021 ended in conviction.

7.      Drivers of Child Marriage:

·       Social Norms and Beliefs: Dowry, consanguineous marriages, ancestral property protection, and societal pressures.

·       Intergenerational Poverty: Economic insecurity forces early marriages, particularly in drought-prone areas like Mahabub Nagar.

·       Lack of Access to Education: Limited secondary schooling, transportation, and sanitation drive families to marry off girls early.

·       Other Factors: Fear of love elopement, community pressure, and social media influence.

8.      Challenges in Addressing Child Marriage:

·       The civil registration system, legislative gaps, and lack of enforcement allow child marriage to persist.

·       A legal framework backed by resources and enforcement is essential to protect girls’ rights and reduce child marriage in Telangana.

o   Telugu Social Reformer: Key figure in widow remarriage, female education.

o   Father of Modern Telugu Prose: Published on social reforms.

·        Caste Associations: Emerged as significant reform movements, e.g., Kongu Vellala Sangam (Tamil Nadu), Vokkaliga, Lingayat Associations (Mysore), S.N.D.P. Yogam (Kerala).

·        Political Evolution: Caste associations transitioned into political forces by the 20th century.

All India Arya Samaj Conference (1938)

• Location: Sholapur.
• President: Sri Madhava Rao Anne.
• Chief Guest: Veer Savarkar.
• Educational Contributions: Keshav Memorial Educational Institutions (Hyderabad) and Upadeshi Educational Institutions (Nalgonda).

Swami Dayanand’s Contribution to National Movement

• Support for Hindi: Promoted the use of Hindi language.
• Swadeshi and Khadi: Supported the Swadeshi movement and Khadi.
• Opposition to Salt Tax: Agreed upon by Arya Samaj.
• Influence: Dayanand’s call for “Back to Vedas” paralleled Gandhi’s vision of Indian self-reliance.

• Founded in 1875 by Swami Dayananda Saraswati.
• Objective: Protection of Vedic dharma; Vedic reform movement.
• Slogan: “Back to Vedas”.
• Key Work: “Satyarth Prakashika” (criticized Islam, Christianity, Sikhism; translated into Telugu by Aadipudi Somanatha Rao).

Principles:

• Caste based on occupation, not birth.
• Opposed idol worship, untouchability, child marriage.
• Encouraged widow remarriage, inter-caste marriages.

Hyderabad Arya Samaj Branch (1892)

• Key Figures:
• President: Pandit Kamal Prasadji Mishra.
• Notable Members: Swamy Shraddhanand, Vandemataram Ramachandra Rao, Aadipudi Somanatha Rao, Keshav Rao Karotkar, Aghoranath Chattopadhyaya.
• Shuddhi Program: Re-converting Hindus who had converted to other religions; led by Swami Shraddhanand.

Conflicts with Nizam Government:

• Arya Samaj leaders arrested.
• Shuddhi program leaders expelled from Hyderabad.
• Arya Samaj Satyagraha (1938):
• Hindu Civil Liberty Union led protests against Nizam’s rule.
• Pandit Narendraji: Key figure, arrested and called Hyderabad “a larger area jail”.
• Vandemataram Ramachandra Rao: Symbol of resistance.

·       Foundation: Estb – Raja Ram Mohan Roy in 1828 (Bombay).

·       Hyderabad Branch: Founded in 1869; 1st meeting – Sultan Bazar (1914) under Narayana Govinda Velingkar.

·       Principles: Condemned image worship and caste system; promoted universal tolerance, unity of God, and social reform (female education, technical education, charity).

·       Decline: Declined after Ram Mohan’s death (1833); split due to Keshub Chandra Sen’s controversial practices (child marriage); “Sadharan Brahmo Samaj” formed in 1878, but lost momentum by the 20th century.

Raja Ram Mohan Roy

·        Born: Bengal, 1772; studied Sanskrit, Arabic, Persian, and several European languages.

·        Contributions: Social reformer; wrote in multiple languages; started newspapers; envoy to England; died in 1833.

Theosophical Society

• Founded: New York, 1875 by Madame Blavatsky (Russia) and Colonel Olcott (America).
• Hyderabad Branch: Established in 1882 at Chaderghat.
• Theosophy Telugu Federation: Founded in 1919; first meeting in Kakinada, registered as a society in 1964.

·        Founded by Raja Murali Manohar Bahadur.

·        Fought discrimination, sent Hindu students abroad.

Society of Union & Progress (1929):

·        Founded by Mir Akbar Ali Khan, Padmaja Naidu; opposed religious indifference by Nizam.

Swadeshi League (1930):

·        Established by Padmaja Naidu; spread Khadi importance.

·        Secretary: Fazlu Rehaman.

Nizam Subjects League (1934):

·        Also called Mulki League (1935); president Sir Nizamath Jung; protected Mulki rights.

Hyderabad Social Service League (1915):

·        Founded by Keshav Rao Koratkar, Vaman Nayak.

·        Established Vivek Vardhini School (1906).

Hyderabad Young Men’s Union (1917):

·        President: Vaman Nayak.

Hyderabad State Reforms Association (1918):

·        Founders: Keshav Rao Koratkar, Vaman Nayak.

Hindu Dharma Parishad (1925):

·        Established for Hindu religion preservation; proposed Harijan development.

Hindu Standing Committee (1932):

·        Founded by Kashinath Rao Vaidya.

Humanitarian League:

·        Founder: Rai Balamukund, with support from Bhagya Reddy Varma, Lalji Meghaji; focused on Harijan welfare.

Comrades Association (1939):

·        Founded by Raja Bahadur Gour, Makhdoom Mohiuddin, Omkar Prasad, Syed Ibrahim; inaugural president Kashinath Rao Vaidya.

All Hyderabad Student Union (AHSU, 1941): Founded in Hyderabad as a branch of the national federation.

·        Key Figures: Aquil Ali Khan, Omkar Prasad, Anabheri Prabakar Rao (from Karimnagar).

·        Role: Political centers, active in the Join India campaign pre-Hyderabad merger.

Trade Unions

·        Suryapet Traders Association (1922): Founded by Puvvada Venkatappaiah, Bhagari Laxmaiah.

o   Regulations: Formulated by Madapati Hanumanth Rao; became a model for other associations.

·        Bhuvanagiri Traders Association: Supported by Arutla Laxmi Narsimha Reddy; Secretary G.S. Gupta.

·        Traders Mahasabhas: Held in Suryapet (1923), Miryalaguda (1928), Nalgonda (1928), Tipparthi (1929).

·       Andhra Sodhari Samajam (1917): Founded by Nadimpalli Sundaramma and Pandhiti Veera Raghavulamma.

·       Hyderabad Women’s Social Development Association (1922): Founded by Margaret Cousins, Sarojini Naidu, and others.

·       Andhra Mahila Sangam (1930): Founded by Durgabhai Deshmukh.

• Focus: Women’s education, social, and economic upliftment.

·       Calendar Company Workers Union (1920): First labor union in Hyderabad, founded by V.V. Giri in Secunderabad.

·       Singareni Collieries Workers Union (1935): Founded by Devuri Shesha Giri Rao.

·       Key Leaders: Fatehullah Khan, Raghavendra Rao, Sarvadevabhatla Ramanadham, Vattikota Alwar Swamy.

·       Railway Workers Union Strike (1941): Supported by Comrades Association under Makhdoom Mohiuddin.

·       All Hyderabad Trade Union Congress: Unified labor unions under the leadership of President Makhdoom Mohiuddin and Secretary Dr. Raj Bahadur Gour.

• Merger: Merged with AITUC on 16th August, 1946.

·       Yadava Sangam (1920): Founded by Seetaramaiah Yadav.

·       Mudiraj Mahasabha (1922): President G. Ramakrishnaiah.

·       Munnuru Kapu Sangam (1922): Held Nizam Rashtra Andhra Munnuru Kapu Mahasabha in 1935.

• Author: Bojja Narsimhulu, author of Munnuru Kapu Kula Abyudayam.

·       Gouda Sangam: Hostels established for Goud students by Chiragu Veeranna.

·       Padmashali Sangam: Key figures include Konda Laxman Bapuji, Guntaka Narsaiah Panthulu.

·        Key Event: All India Padmashali Sabha (1929) in Hyderabad.

·        HYCO: Hyderabad Handloom Weavers Central Cooperative Association founded by Konda Laxman Bapuji in 1950.

·        Author: Mateti Papayya, wrote Mohturbha Maggam Pannu criticizing weaving taxes.

Leader: Maderi Bhagya Reddy Varma (born 22nd May, 1888).

·       Original Name: Maderi Bhagaiah; changed to Bhagya Reddy.

·       Titles: Varma (by Arya Samaj), Shiva Shresta (by Vaman Nayak), Sangamanya (Adi Andhra Mahasabha).

·       Known As: Father of Telangana Dalit Movement, “Dalit Vaithalika”.

Achievements:

§  Celebrated Buddha Jayanthi from 1913 to 1937.

§  Wrote the first Telugu Dalit story Vetti Madiga.

§  Established multiple organizations for Dalit upliftment (e.g., Jagan Mitra Mandali – 1906, Manya Sangam – 1911, Adi Hindu Social Service League – 1922).

·        Aim: Spread education and unity among Dalits.

·        Established Adi Hindu Schools (visited by Gandhiji in 1929).

Manya Sangam (1911):

·        Focused on education, abolishing Devadasi and child marriages, banning alcohol.

·        Became Adi Hindu Social Service League (1922).

Other Organizations:

·        Devadasi Eradication Organization, Sanga Samskara Nataka Mandali (1915), Vishwa Gruha Paricharika Sammelanam (1916), Adi Hindu Youth Gymnastic Competitions (1925).

·        Volunteer Medical Camps during the 1925 plague and cholera outbreak.

Bhagya Reddy Varma’s Legacy

·        Ran parallel judicial systems for Dalits in Telangana.

·        Passed away in February 1939.

·        Son: M.B. Goutham continued his legacy by establishing the Adi Hindu Social Service organization.

·        Named Dalits as “Adi Hindus”.

Adi Hindu League Conferences (1921-1924):

·        1st Conference (1921): Presided by Papanna.

·        2nd Conference (1922): Presided by Keshav Rao Koratkar.

All India Downtrodden Castes Conference (1927): Held at Allahabad; Bhagya Reddy represented South India.

·        Dr. B.R. Ambedkar elected as representative for 9 crore Adi Hindus.

All India Adi Hindu Conference (1930): Held in Lucknow, Bhagya Reddy as president.

1931 Census: Due to Bhagya Reddy’s efforts, the Nizam government recognized untouchables as “Adi Hindus”.

·        Spread the principles of Vaishnavism, Brahma Samaj, and Achala.

·        Founded Sunitha Bala Samajam (1912) in Secunderabad.

o   Fought for Dalit education, Devadasi abolition, and alcohol prohibition.

Adi Hindu Jathiyonnathi Sabha (1922):

·        President: Konda Venkat Swamy.

·        Objective: Oppose Shudras/Neecha Janma theory, promote equality.

·        Later renamed as Adi Hindu Mahasabha (1927).

·        Founded Arundhati Mahasabha (1931).

Elected: First Dalit councillor in Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (1935).

B.S. Venkat Rao

·       Known as: Hyderabad Ambedkar.

·       Original name: Bathula Ashaiah, called “Rao Saheb” by followers.

·       Adi Dravida Sangam (1922): Aimed to eradicate the Devadasi system and unite Dalits.

·       Adi Hindu Mahasabha (1927): Built libraries and temples for Dalits in Gasmandy (later Adeyya Nagar).

·       Mahar Mahasabha (1936): Presided over the Pune session.

·       Hyderabad State Depressed Classes Association (1938): Created the Scheduled Castes Trust Fund (1 crore rupees) for Dalit welfare.

·       Adi Hindu Library: Promoted Dalit education.

·       Education Minister (1947): Served under Mir Laiq Ali’s cabinet.

·       Rajya Sabha Member (1952): Elected from Hyderabad Legislative Assembly.

·       Recognition: Awarded Khusro-e-Alim title by the Nizam.

Key Government Schemes:

·        Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP): Promotes education and safety of the girl child.

·        Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban & Rural): Ensures housing for women.

·        Samagra Shiksha: Ensures girl-friendly schools with adequate facilities.

·        Scheme for Adolescent Girls (SAG): Supports the development of adolescent girls.

·       Background: Based on the Constitution’s commitment to gender rights and international conventions like CEDAW and Beijing Platform for Action.

Key Focus Areas:

·        Economic, social, and political empowerment of women.

·        Eliminate violence and discrimination.

·        Equal access to education, healthcare, and employment.

·        Gender-sensitive legislation and leadership.

Objective:

·       Provide care, support, and rehabilitation for women facing abuse.

·       Ensure women’s access to government services and legal protections.

·       Promote public awareness and behavioral change.

Components of Mission Shakti

1.      Sambal:

·       Focus on protection for women facing violence.

·       Includes One Stop Centres and a 24-hour Women Helpline.

2.      Samarthya:

·       Focus on women’s empowerment through education and employment.

·       Includes schemes like Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (financial assistance for pregnant and lactating women).

·       Hub for Empowerment of Women (HEW): Encourages policy convergence.

·       Objective: Provides holistic care to children in difficult circumstances, including children in need of care and protection (CNCP), children in conflict with law (CCL), and street children.

Historical Background:

·        1986: National Policy for Children adopted.

·        1990s: Initiatives like Child Welfare Committees (CWCs) and Special Juvenile Police Units (SJPUs) established.

·        Phased implementation since 2009, focusing on CWCs, SJPUs, and child services.

Key Objectives:

·        Prioritize children’s rights: survival, protection, development.

·        Strengthen child protection in families and communities.

·        Raise public awareness and ensure private sector partnerships.

·        Objective: Maternity benefits for pregnant and lactating women; helps fulfill nutritional needs and compensates for lost wages.

·        Cash Benefit: Rs. 5,000 in three installments.

·        Key Focus: Maternal health, infant mortality reduction, and promoting institutional deliveries.

·        Monitoring: Via PMKVY-Common Application Software (PMKVY-CAS).

·       Goal: Improve nutrition delivery, content, outreach, with a focus on health, well-being, and reducing stunting, undernutrition, and anemia.

·       Poshan Mah: September, promoting prenatal care, breastfeeding, and nutrition awareness.

·       Poshan Vatika: Promotes homegrown organic vegetables and fruits.

·       Features: Daycare facilities, early stimulation, nutrition, growth monitoring, and health check-ups.

User Charges:

·        BPL families: Rs. 20/month.

·        Families earning up to Rs. 12,000: Rs. 100/month.

·        Families earning above Rs. 12,000: Rs. 200/month.

Functional Creches: 6453 as of 11.03.2020, with Kerala taking over 479 creches.

·        One Stop Centre (OSC) Scheme: Over 700 OSCs nationwide by 2022, helping 300,000+ women. Services include police help, medical care, legal and mental health counseling, and shelter.

Funding Pattern:

·        60:40 (States), 90:10 (difficult terrains), 100% for UTs.

Key Schemes Under Nirbhaya Fund:

1.      One Stop Centre Scheme:

·       Comprehensive support to abused women.

2.      Mahila Police Volunteers (MPVs):

·       Central initiative linking public aid for women.

3.      Universal Women Helpline:

·       Short code 181 for women’s helpline across India.

·        Integrated Emergency Response Management System (IERMS): Focuses on swift response during emergencies, enhancing public safety.

·        Emergency Response Support System (ERSS): Pan-India emergency number (112) for distress support.

Safe City Projects

·        8 Cities: Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Lucknow, Mumbai.

·        Initiatives include Fast Track Courts, Anti-Human Trafficking Units, Women Help Desks, IERMS at 983 railway stations.

·       Aims to prevent gender-biased sex elimination, ensure education for girls.

Saksham Anganwadi & Mission Poshan 2.0:

·       Focus on malnutrition, maternal health, and early childhood care.

·       Beneficiaries: Children (6 months-6 years), Pregnant Women, Lactating Mothers, Adolescent Girls.

POSHAN Abhiyaan:

·       ICT-enabled initiative to tackle malnutrition.

·       Focus on Maternal Nutrition, Child Feeding, Malnourished Children.

·       Introduced stricter penalties for rape, including the death penalty for raping girls under 12.

·       Mandated completion of rape trials within two months.

2.      The Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2013:

·       Expanded the definition of sexual offenses and introduced punishments for stalking, voyeurism.

·       Established fast-track courts for cases involving sexual violence.

3.      The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition, and Redressal) Act, 2013:

·       Mandated the formation of Internal Complaints Committees in workplaces.

·       Provided for penalties for non-compliance and protection against retaliation.

4.      The Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005:

·       Provided women with legal protection against physical, emotional, verbal, and economic abuse.

·       Allowed for civil remedies like protection orders, residence orders, and maintenance.

5.      The Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961:

·       Made giving or receiving dowry a punishable offense.

·       Empowered the courts to take action against those demanding dowry, including imprisonment and fines.

·       State support for shelter, equitable share in development, and improved quality of life.

Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana

• Includes intergenerational bonding programs and educational material for aging-related issues.

Schemes under Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment

·       Integrated Programme for Senior Citizens (IPSrC): Grants for old age homes, mobile Medicare units, etc.

·       Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana (RVY): Free aids for BPL senior citizens with age-related disabilities.

·       Elderline (14567): Helpline for addressing senior citizens’ grievances launched in 2021.

·       State Action Plan for Senior Citizens (SAPSrC): Encourages states to plan and strategize for senior citizens’ welfare.

·       SAGE Portal (2021): Supports innovative start-ups for elderly welfare with equity support up to Rs. 1 crore.

·        Article 41: Right to work, education, and public assistance for disabled individuals.

·        Disability relief is under the State List of the Constitution.

Legislative Acts:

·        Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016: Expanded recognized disabilities from 7 to 21, increased job reservation to 4% and education reservation to 5%.

·        Mental Healthcare Act, 2017: Ensures rights and mental healthcare services for persons with mental illness.

·        Rehabilitation Council of India Act, 1992: Regulates services and maintains a central register for rehabilitation professionals.

·        National Trust Act, 1999: Supports independent living for persons with autism, cerebral palsy, and other disabilities.

·       Assistance to Disabled Persons (ADIP): Distribution of aids like wheelchairs and hearing aids.

·       National Handicapped Finance and Development Corporation (NHFDC): Concessional credit for PwDs.

·       SIPDA Scheme: Assistance for barrier-free environments and rehabilitation centers.

·       Incentive Scheme (2008): Reimburses private employers’ EPF and ESI contributions for hiring disabled individuals.

Unique Disability Identification (UDID) Portal:

·        National database for PwDs with tracking of beneficiaries’ physical and financial progress.

National Action Plan for Skill Development of PwDs (NAP-SDP):

·        Improves employability and skills of PwDs through vocational training programs.

Telangana Initiatives:

·        5% Reservation: Extended for PwDs with priority for women in welfare schemes.

·        Pension Increase: Telangana Chief Minister KCR announced a Rs 1,000 increase in pension for PwDs, now Rs 4,116 per month.

2.      Article 46: State duty to promote educational and economic interests of SCs and STs, safeguarding them from social injustice.

3.      Article 335: Ensures SC/ST claims in public employment without compromising administrative efficiency.

4.      Article 15(4): Special provisions for the advancement of SCs/STs.

5.      Article 16(4A): Reservation in promotions for SCs/STs in state services.

6.      Article 338: Establishes National Commission for SCs/STs to monitor safeguards and advise on socio-economic development.

2.       Fifth Schedule: Establishes Tribes’ Advisory Councils in states with Scheduled Areas.

3.       Article 275: Allows Union Government to grant funds for ST welfare.

4.       Article 330 & 332: Political reservations for STs in Lok Sabha and State Legislatures.

5.       Ministry of Tribal Affairs (1999): Focuses on socio-economic development and policy coordination for STs.

6.       NCST (2004): Safeguards ST interests following amendments to Article 338 and the addition of Article 338A.

Major ST Schemes

·        Post-Matric Scholarship for ST Students: Similar in scope to SC scholarships, focusing on educational empowerment.

·        Tribes Advisory Councils (Fifth Schedule): Direct involvement in advising on ST welfare.

·        Sixth Schedule: Autonomous districts for STs in Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Mizoram.

·        Goal: Increase Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) for SC students in higher education.

·        Funding: Rs. 59,048 Cr over six years (2020-2026); 1.36 crore SC students targeted.

·        Provision: Freeship Card for SC students for easy admissions.

Scholarship for Higher Education for Young Achievers Scheme (SHREYAS):

·        Launched: FY 2021-22.

·        Goal: Convergence of resources for SC/OBC students aiming for higher education or government jobs.

·        Achievement: Rs. 1,628.89 Cr provided since 2014-15 to 21,066 SC students for higher studies (M.Phil/PhD).

Free Coaching for SC & OBC Students:

·        Achievement: Rs. 109.79 Cr released since 2014-15, benefiting 19,995 SC and OBC students for coaching.

National Overseas Scholarship Scheme (NOS):

·        Beneficiaries: Rs. 222.24 Cr provided since 2014-15 to 950 SC and disadvantaged students for international higher education (Master’s/PhD).

Pradhan Mantri Anusuchit Jaati Abhyuday Yojana (PM-AJAY):

·        Goal: Merge PMAGY, SCA to SCSP, and BJRCY for SC poverty reduction and infrastructure development.

·        Key Components:

o   Adarsh Gram Component (PMAGY): Rs. 20 lakh per village for SC-majority villages.

o   Grant-in-aid (SCA to SCSP): 100% grant for SC economic development schemes.

Hostel Component (BJRCY): Focus on reducing SC student dropout rates, especially among girls.

·       Profiling of Sewer/Septic Tank cleaning workers (SSWs) and families.

·       Occupational training, capital subsidy (up to Rs. 5 lakh), and interest subsidy.

·       Safety PPE kits, health insurance under Ayushman Bharat, IT-enabled NAMASTE MIS.

2.      Other Components:

·       Formation of SHGs for SSWs, evaluation under Swachh Sarvekshan by MoHUA.

Educational Loan Subsidy (OBCs & EBCs)

1.      Interest Subsidy on Educational Loans:

·       For higher studies abroad (Masters, M.Phil, Ph.D.); Rs. 143.93 Cr released (2014-15 to date).

·       Eligibility: OBC income < Creamy Layer, EBC income < Rs. 5 lakh/year; 50% financial assistance reserved for women.

2.      Key Features:

·       100% interest subsidy during moratorium, loan limit up to Rs. 20 Lakhs.

Skill Development Initiatives by NBCFDC

1.      NBCFDC Training:

·       Skill Development Training for target groups under Pradhan Mantri Dakshta Aur Kushalta Sampann Hitgrahi Yojana (PM-DAKSH).

2.      Free Coaching Scheme:

·       Provides quality coaching for SCs/OBCs for competitive exams.

·       Provides credit guarantees to SC entrepreneurs for job creation and startup ventures.

2.      Venture Capital Fund for SCs:

·       Supports innovative SC entrepreneurs with concessional finance.

National Fellowship & Overseas Scholarship

1.      Rajiv Gandhi National Fellowship:

·       Financial support for SC students pursuing M.Phil/Ph.D. in Indian institutions.

2.      National Overseas Scholarship for SCs:

·       Financial aid for eligible candidates pursuing Masters and Ph.D. abroad.

Dalit Bandhu Scheme (Telangana)

1.      Objective:

·       Financial assistance of Rs. 10 lakh to SC families for entrepreneurship and self-reliance.

2.      Telangana Overseas Scholarships for SC Students:

·       Scholarship grant up to Rs. 20 lakhs for studies abroad in specific countries.

·       Economic development scheme for ST women with concessional interest rates.

2.      Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS):

·       Quality CBSE education for tribal students, with focus on cultural preservation.

Tribal Development Initiatives

1.      Sankalp Se Siddhi / Mission Van Dhan:

·       Expands tribal livelihoods through Van Dhan Vikas Kendras, retail stores, and e-commerce platforms for tribal products.

2.      TRIFED Programs:

·       Marketing support for Minor Forest Produce (MFP) with Rs. 3000 crores injected into the tribal economy.

·        Ministry of Minority Affairs focuses on six minority communities: Christians, Sikhs, Buddhists, Muslims, Parsis, Jains.

Infrastructure Development

Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Karyakram (PMJVK):

·       Provides basic infrastructure (schools, ITIs, polytechnics, hostels, etc.) in areas with 25% minority population.

Maulana Azad Education Foundation (MAEF):

·       Begum Hazrat Mahal Scholarship for economically weaker minority girls.

·       Gharib Nawaz Employment Scheme for job-oriented skill training.

·       Grant-in-aid for infrastructure development in minority educational institutions.

• For Class I to X, 30% earmarked for girls.

Post-Matric Scholarship:

• For Class XI to PhD, 30% for girls.

Merit-cum-Means Scholarship:

• For UG and PG Professional/Technical courses, 30% for girls.

Maulana Azad National Fellowship:

• For students clearing UGC-NET/CSIR UGC-NET exams.

Naya Savera:

• Free coaching for professional exams, entrance tests.

Padho Pardesh:

• Interest subsidy on education loans for overseas studies.

Nai Udaan:

• Support for those clearing UPSC, PSC, SSC prelims.

• Skill development for 14-35 age group for employability.

USTTAD:

• Traditional arts/crafts development, Hunar Haats for artisans.

Nai Manzil:

• Formal education and skilling for madrasa-educated or school dropouts.

Nai Roshni:

• Leadership development for women from minority and non-minority communities.

Special Schemes

1.      Jiyo Parsi:

·       To prevent population decline of Parsis.

2.      Hamari Dharohar:

Preserve minority heritage within the Indian cultural context.

·       Area: 1,12,077 sq. km; Population: 3,50,03,674 (2011 Census).

·       Geography: Bordered by Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh.

·       Major Cities: Hyderabad, Warangal, Nizamabad, Nalgonda, Khammam, Karimnagar.

Geography and Climate

·       Coordinates: Between 15°46′ and 19°47′ N latitude, 77°16′ and 81°43′ E longitude.

·       Average Rainfall: 906 mm annually; North Telangana: 900-1500 mm; South Telangana: 700-900 mm.

·       Terrain: Plateau region, red sandy soil, black soil in specific areas.

·       Icons: State Bird – Palapitta (Indian Roller), State Animal – Jinka (Deer), State Tree – Jammi Chettu (Prosopis Cineraria), State Flower – Tangedu (Tanner’s Cassia).

·       Other Minerals: Limestone, bauxite, mica, uranium in Nalgonda, iron ore in Bayyaram, manganese ore in Adilabad.

·       Rivers: Godavari, Krishna, Musi, Bhima, Kinnerasani, PenGanga.

Major Minerals (District-wise)

·       Coal: Adilabad, Karimnagar, Khammam, Warangal.

·       Iron Ore: Hematite in Khammam, Magnetite in Adilabad, Warangal.

·       Limestone: Adilabad, Hyderabad, Karimnagar, Mahabubnagar, Nalgonda.

·       Granite: Karimnagar, Khammam, Mahabubnagar, Medak.

·       Kasu Brahmananda Reddy National Park: Located in Hyderabad.

·       Kawal Tiger Reserve: Dry deciduous forest, home to tigers, leopards, gaurs.

·       Mahaveer Harina Vanasthali National Park: Deer Park in Hyderabad.

·       Mrugavani National Park: Notable fauna includes spotted deer, wild boars.

Wildlife Sanctuaries

• Eturnagaram: In Mulugu district, home to Koya tribes and Medaram Jatara.
• Kinnersani: Surrounds Kinnerasani Reservoir.
• Manjeera: Supports mugger crocodiles, freshwater turtles.
• Pranahita: Known for blackbuck, located on Pranahita River.
• Pakhal: Surrounds Pakhal Lake near Warangal.
• Pocharam: Named after Pocharam Lake, located in Nizamabad and Medak districts.

·       Types of Forests: Tropical Moist Deciduous, Tropical Dry Deciduous, Littoral and Swamp, Tropical Thorn, Dry Evergreen.

·       Classification: Reserved Forests: 21,024 sq km; Protected Forests: 7,468 sq km; Unclassified Forests: 750 sq km.

State Symbols:

·        State Animal: Spotted Deer

·        State Bird: Indian Roller

·        State Tree: Jammi (Prosopis Cineraria)

·        State Flower: Tangedu (Senna Auriculata)

·        Major Plants: Palm Rosa, Lemon Grass, Citronella, Amla, Coleus.

Flora and Fauna

·        Biodiversity: 2,939 plant species, 365 bird species, 103 mammal species, 28 reptile species, 21 amphibian species.

·        Endangered Species: Tiger, Panther, Indian Gaur, Four Horned Antelope, Black Buck, Marsh Crocodile.

·        Dense Teak Forests: Along Godavari River (Nizamabad, Adilabad, Karimnagar, Warangal, Khammam).

·        National Parks: Amrabad Tiger Reserve, Kawal Tiger Reserve, Kasu Brahmananda Reddy National Park.

·        Sanctuaries: Eturnagaram, Kinnersani, Sivaram, Manjeera, Pranahita.

Forest Development Corporation

·        Incorporation: May 14, 2015.

Objectives:

·       Raise industrial plantations (Eucalyptus, Bamboo).

·       Rehabilitate degraded forests.

·       Increase productivity and create employment.

·       Eco-tourism and consultancy services.

Telangana State Forest Academy (TSFA)

·        Establishment: 1926, relocated to Dulapally in 2014.

·        Training: Provides training to forest officers, NGOs, and Joint Forest Management Committees.

·        National-Level: Offers courses for IFS officers and other states’ personnel.

Acts Implemented:

1.      Water (Prevention & Control of Pollution) Act, 1974.

2.      Air (Prevention & Control of Pollution) Act, 1981.

3.      Hazardous Wastes Management Rules, 2016.

4.      Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016.

5.      Bio-Medical Waste Management Rules, 2016.

Nehru Zoological Park

·        Inauguration: October 6, 1963.

·        Area: 380 acres.

·        Vision: Wildlife conservation and education, pollution-free environment.

Telangana State Biodiversity Board

·        Established: Under Biological Diversity Act, 2002.

Functions:

·       Conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity.

·       Equitable sharing of benefits from biological resources.

·       Population: Refers to the total number of people in a specified area or a specific group (e.g., SC, ST, or religious groups).

·       Human Capital: Productive skills and knowledge embodied in labor. Term introduced by the Ministry of Human Resource Development in 1985, replacing the Ministry of Education and Culture.

·       Census: Systematic collection of demographic and socio-economic data. Conducted every 10 years by the Government of India.

• Total Population: 3,50,03,674 (~2.89% of India’s population).
• Projected Population (2021 & 2031): 3,77,25,000 (2021), 3,92,07,000 (2031).
• Population Share: 2.77% (2021) & 2.66% (2031) of India’s population.

Gender-wise Population:

·        Total Males: 1,76,11,633.

·        Total Females: 1,73,92,041.

·        Sex Ratio: 988 females per 1000 males.

·        District Variations in Sex Ratio: Lowest in Rangareddy (950), highest in Nirmal (1046).

• Urban Population: 1,36,08,665 (38.88% of total).
• Rural Population: 2,13,95,009 (61.12% of total).
• Most Urbanized Districts: Hyderabad (100% urban), Medchal-Malkajgiri (91.47% urban).
• Highest Rural Population: Mulugu (96.10%), Narayanpet (92.63%).

Social Groups:

·        SC Population: 54,08,800 (15.45% of total).

·        ST Population: 31,77,940 (9.08% of total).

·        Highest SC Share: Mancherial (24.72%), Jayashankar Bhupalpally (22.08%).

·        Lowest SC Share: Hyderabad (6.28%), Medchal-Malkajgiri (9.42%).

·        Total Literates: 2,06,96,778.

·       Female Literates: 89,95,049.

·       Male Literates: 1,17,01,729.

·        Overall Literacy Rate: 66.54%.

·       Female Literacy Rate: 57.99%.

·       Male Literacy Rate: 75.04%.

·        Rural Literacy: 57.30%.

·        Urban Literacy: 81.09%.

Child Sex Ratio (0-6 Years):

• Total Children (0-6 years): 38,99,166 (Females: 18,81,231, Males: 20,17,935).
• Child Sex Ratio: 932 females per 1000 males.
• Lowest CSR: Wanaparthy and Mahbubabad (903).
• Highest CSR: Mulugu (971).

·       Growth (2001-2011): Total population grew by 13.58% (compared to 18.77% in the previous decade).

·       Urban Growth: Increased by 38.12% (2001-2011), compared to 25.13% in the previous decade.

·       Rural Growth: Grew by a modest 2.13%, higher than UN’s world population growth estimate of 1.23%.

·       Urban Concentration: 30% of urban population resides in Hyderabad.

Density of Population

·        Formula: Density = Total Population/Area in Sq. Km

·        State Average: 312 persons per sq. km.

·        Lowest Density: Adilabad (170 per sq. km).

·        Highest Density: Hyderabad (18,172 per sq. km).

·        Other Low-Density Districts: Khammam (197), Mahabubnagar (220).

·        Medium-Term Goal: Achieve Total Fertility Rate (TFR) of 2.1 by 2010.

·        Long-Term Goal: Stabilize population by 2045 for sustainable development.

Salient Features of NPP 2000:

·        Free Education: Mandatory for all children until age 14.

·        Infant Mortality Rate (IMR): Target to reduce to under 30 per 1000 live births.

·        Maternal Mortality Rate (MMR): Target below 100 per 10,000 live births.

·        Universal Immunization: For all infants.

·        Delayed Marriages: Encourage marriage for girls above 18 and preferably above 20.

·        Institutional Deliveries: Achieve 80% institutional and 100% skilled deliveries.

·        Fertility Regulation: Ensure universal access to contraception and reproductive health services.

·        AIDS Prevention: Strengthen collaboration between NACO and STI/RTI treatments.

·        AYUSH Integration: Promote Indian medicine in reproductive and infant care.

·        Convergence of Social Welfare Programs: Integrate family planning with social welfare for individual-focused services.

·        British Attitude: Indifference towards population growth, avoiding interference in Indian traditions.

·        Notable Advocates: P.K. Wattal (1916), R.D. Karve, Rabindranath Tagore, P.N. Sapru, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Bhore Committee supported birth control.

After Independence Period:

·        Radha Kamal Mukherjee Committee (1940): Recommended self-control, birth control awareness, and discouraging polygamy.

·        Bhore Committee (1943): Advocated ‘deliberate limitation of family’.

·        1950s: India launched the first state-sponsored family planning program.

1976 National Population Policy:

§  Increased marriageable age (21 for boys, 18 for girls).

§  Monetary incentives for birth control, women’s literacy.

§  Emergency Period (1975-77): Coercive measures like forced sterilization (backfired).

·        Renaming: Family Planning program to Family Welfare program.

·        Marriage Age: Legal marriage age fixed at 18 (girls) and 21 (boys).

·        Voluntary Sterilization: No compulsion in sterilization.

·        Incentives: Monetary incentives for sterilization; private companies exempted from corporate taxes for promoting birth control.

National Health Policy (1983):

·        Emphasized small family norm through voluntary efforts.

·        Aimed at population stabilization.

·       Literacy Definition (Census of India): Aged 7+, able to read and write with understanding in any language.

·       Equitable Education: Government of Telangana prioritizes quality education access for all

·       Total: 40,898 schools (Primary: 20,752, Upper Primary: 7,471, High Schools: 11,921, Higher Secondary: 754).

·       Highest: Hyderabad with 2,902 schools.

·       Lowest: Jayashankar with 537 schools.

2.       Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER):

·       Primary: 111.96%, Upper Primary: 97.46%, Secondary: 88.0%.

·       Highest GER: Rangareddy (Primary: 176.11%, Upper Primary: 151.29%, Secondary: 125.35%).

·       Lowest GER: Pedappalli (Primary: 71.70%) and Jayashankar (Upper Primary: 54.86%, Secondary: 54.02%).

3.       Dropout Rates:

·       Primary: Near-zero (2019-20).

·       Upper Primary: 0.06% (2019-20).

·       High Schools: 12.29% (2019-20).

·       Highest dropout: Jayashankar (Primary: 5.16%, High Schools: 29.49%).

4.       Teacher-Student Ratio:

·       Overall: 23 students per teacher.

·       Primary Level: 20 (better than RTE norm of 40).

·       Upper Primary: 18 (better than RTE norm of 35).

·       Best ratio: Warangal (Primary: 12), Worst: Jogulamba Gadwal (Primary: 32).

• Brain Development: 85% of brain development occurs before age 6 (The Lancet, 2017).
• Anganwadi Centres: 31,711 main and 3,989 mini centers, focus on pre-reading, pre-writing, and language skills.

Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN):

• Launched (2022-23): “Tholi Mettu/First Step” for Grades 1-5.
• Goal: Universal FLN by 2024.
• Focus: Contextual pedagogy, activity-based learning, capacity building for teachers.

Higher Education:

·        Role: Promotes knowledge, research, and innovation, enabling students to solve socio-economic problems.

·        Institutions: 1,073 degree colleges with 3,84,021 students (2022-23); 2,963 junior colleges for 9,48,321 students (2022-23).

·        Educational Attainment (Periodic Labour Force Survey 2020-21):

o   Secondary: 18.4%, Higher Secondary: 13.5%, Undergraduate: 11.3% (all higher than national averages).

Collegiate Education:

• Objective: Promote UG/PG courses, with focus on backward rural areas and women.
• New Colleges: 4 Government Degree Colleges (2022-23).
• NAAC Accreditation: 88 Government Degree Colleges accredited (as of Jan 2023).

• Objective: Improve school infrastructure in 26,067 government and local body schools benefiting 19,84,167 students (2021-22).
• Budget: Rs. 7,289.54 crore allocated; Rs. 2 crore per MLA/MLC Constituency under Constituency Development Programme.
• Phase I: 35% of schools (9,123) selected with a budget of Rs. 3,497 crore.

Telangana Residential Educational Institutions Society (TREIS):

• Goal: Provide quality education using the Gurukul method for socially and economically backward students.
• Institutions: Manages 37 schools and colleges with a student strength of 21,789 (2020-21).
• Performance: 100% SSC pass rate and 95.3% Intermediate pass rate.

Telangana Social Welfare Residential Educational Institutions Society (TSWREIS):

• Institutions: Manages 268 residential schools (173 for girls) with 1.5 lakh students.
• Results: 100% SSC results, 89.38% Intermediate results, and 88.79% in degree colleges.
• Special Institutions: Fine Arts & Film Technology, Sainik School, Armed Forces College, and 87 Freedom Schools.

Telangana Tribal Welfare Residential Educational Institutions Society (TTWREIS):

• Institutions: Operates 188 residential institutions; includes 23 Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) for tribal children.

Model Schools:

• Goal: Set up in Educationally Backward Blocks (EBBs), providing education in Grades VI to Intermediate with English as the medium.
• Responsibility: Taken over by the Telangana government from 2015-16 after GOI delinked the scheme.

RUSA 2.0 (Rashtriya Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan):

·        Focus: Quality enhancement, research, and innovation in higher education.

·        Funding: Rs. 100 crore allocated to Osmania University for research centers; 4 Model Degree Colleges under RUSA 1.0 and 3 under RUSA 2.0.

• Target: Impart functional literacy to 2.20 lakh adults (15+) in 3 districts.
• Funding: Rs. 5.18 crore approved for the program.

Overseas Education Assistance:

• Scholarships for SC, ST, BC, and Minority students for overseas education (family income < Rs. 5 lakh).
• Beneficiaries: Over 1,790 BC, 699 SC, 204 ST, and 2,235 Minority students with an expenditure of Rs. 385.87 crore.

Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas (KGBV):

• Objective: Provide residential education for disadvantaged girls in educationally backward areas.
• Institutions: 475 KGBVs with 91,617 students up to Grade X and 22,453 in Intermediate.

MJPTBCWREIS (Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Telangana Backward Classes Welfare Residential Educational Institutions Society):

• Established: 2014 for BC Welfare Residential Schools.
• Institutions: Manages 261 schools, 19 junior colleges, and 1 degree college for 1,32,440 students.
• Initiatives: “Super-100” and “School of Excellence” for NEET, EAMCET, and JEE preparation.

TSCOST (Telangana State Council of Science & Technology):

• Formed: 1986 for promoting Science & Technology at grassroots.
• Objective: Formulate S&T plans, disseminate information, and coordinate activities under the Department of Environment, Forests, Science & Technology.

State Action Plan on Climate Change (SAPCC):

• Focus: Adaptation and mitigation of climate change impacts.
• Goal: Prioritize adaptation/mitigation options, improve ecological sustainability, and develop innovative policies.

·        Objective: Restoration of 46,531 minor irrigation tanks for water security and agriculture.

·        Benefits:

o   Expands irrigated area, fisheries development, improves groundwater levels.

o   Power savings due to reduced well irrigation.

o   Restores tanks to store 255 TMC of water.

o   Launched in July 2014.

Telangana Ku Haritha Haram (Tree Plantation)

• Goal: Increase tree cover from 24% to 33%.
• Target: Planting 230 crore seedlings in 3 years (130 crore outside forests).
• Benefits:

o   Enhances biodiversity, sustainable livelihoods, ecological balance.

o   Reduces CO2 emissions by 10 million tonnes.

• Rejuvenation: Protect 100 crore plants within notified forests.

Swachh Bharat Mission

• Objectives:

o   Eliminate open defecation, manual scavenging.

o   Modern solid waste management, behavioral change for healthy sanitation.

LED Street Lighting

• Initiative: Agreement with Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL) to replace conventional streetlights with LEDs in 12 ULBs as a pilot project.

Smart Cities Mission

• Focus: Sustainable, inclusive urban development with:

o   Core infrastructure: water, electricity, sanitation, mobility, housing.

o   Robust IT, e-Governance, public safety, health, and education.

• Telangana won five awards for building designs including Yadagirigutta Temple and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Telangana Secretariat.

Digital India Awards (2022):

• Smart Nutrient Management of Soil project won Gold Icon Award.

Green Champion Award (2022):

• Telangana’s MA&UD Dept. recognized by Indian Green Building Council for promoting green buildings.

World Green City Award (2022):

• Hyderabad won the Grand Winner title for the Haritha Haram initiative.

GHMC Solid Waste Management Award (2018):

• Recognized for outstanding performance in solid waste management.

Renewable Energy Award (2015):

• Telangana named Outstanding Performer in promoting renewable energy by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

·        Primary Healthcare:

o   636 Primary Health Centres (PHCs), 232 Urban PHCs, 90 Community Health Centres (CHCs), 20 Area Hospitals.

o   4,745 health sub-centres.

o   Bed Capacity: Government hospitals have a total of 27,996 beds.

·        Basti Dawakhanas: 256 operational in urban slums, serving 69.18 lakh people since 2018.

·        Palle Dawakhanas: Conversion of rural sub-centres into “Palle Dawakhanas” for primary healthcare.

Aarogyasri Scheme (now integrated with AB PM-JAY)

·        Covers 87.5 lakh Below Poverty Line (BPL) households.

·        Provides Rs. 5 lakh per family annually, with additional Rs. 10 lakh for high-end procedures.

·        In May 2021, dovetailed with Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY.

KCR KIT Program

·        Launched on 2nd June 2017.

·        Aim: Increase institutional deliveries, reduce Maternal Mortality Rate (MMR), Infant Mortality Rate (IMR).

·        Cash Assistance: Rs. 12,000 for male child, Rs. 13,000 for female child (paid in four installments).

·        2020-21: 2,14,576 kits distributed.

Child Malnutrition

·        Total children: 18,72,991; Malnourished: 1,58,467 (8.46%).

o   Severely malnourished: 2.89%.

o   Moderately malnourished: 5.57%.

·        Highest malnutrition in Mulugu (12.51%), lowest in Khammam (5.46%).

Supplementary Nutrition

·        Mothers enrolled (2020-21): 4,77,922; Received nutrition: 2,93,026 (61.31%).

·        Children enrolled: 20,79,606; Received nutrition: 12,75,773 (61.35%).

·       Pilot project in Mulugu and Rajanna Sircilla districts.

·       Objective: Create a digitized health database for all individuals, identify region-specific diseases.

2.      Telangana Diagnostics Scheme

·       Launched in 2018: Hub-and-spoke model for diagnostic testing.

·       20 district-level diagnostic hubs, 300 spoke centers providing 60+ types of tests.

·       Expansion planned with 13 new district hubs, and 19 imaging services.

3.      Telangana Dialysis Scheme

·       Free dialysis services with 42 centers, benefitting 8,500 patients yearly.

·       Total of 6 lakh dialysis sessions annually.

·       Since state formation: Rs. 555.83 crore spent for 68,968 beneficiaries.

4.      National Tobacco Control Programme

·       Implemented in all 33 districts to enforce tobacco control laws.

·       90,000 challans issued since 2014.

5.      National Mental Health Program

·       Rolled out in all districts with District Mental Health Professional (DMHP) teams.

·       Mental Health Screening app piloted in 9 districts.

6.      Kanti Velugu

·       Launched on 15th August 2018.

·       Aim: Make Telangana avoidable blindness-free.

·       Free eye camps, distribution of 34.91 lakh spectacles.

7.      Telangana Dialysis Scheme

·       Free dialysis services with 42 centers.

·       6 lakh dialysis sessions per year benefiting 8,500 patients.

e-Hospital Management System (e-HMS)

• Streamlined hospital administration, improving patient care through an integrated computerized system.

AYUSH in Telangana

• 860 dispensaries and hospitals.
• Wellness centers in Hyderabad and Warangal.
• Plans to upgrade 421 dispensaries and establish 50-bed hospitals in Ananthagiri Hills, Siddipet, and Jayashankar Bhupalpally.

Achievements of Telangana

·        First Trimester Registrations: Increase from 18% to 34%.

·        KCR KIT Program: Reduced out-of-pocket expenses, improved antenatal and postnatal care.

Poverty estimation:

·       Dadabhai Naoroji: Early insights during British rule.

·       Committees: National Planning Committee, Bombay Plan, Alagh Committee, Lakdawala, Tendulkar (2009), Rangarajan (2014).

·       2011 SECC: Introduced multidimensional poverty estimation for BPL identification.

·       NITI Aayog: Current poverty oversight via NSSO data collection.

Poverty in Telangana

Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) 2023:

·       Poverty dropped from 13.18% (2015-16) to 5.88% (2019-21), further to 3.76% (2022-23).

·       9.42% reduction over 10 years.

·       Telangana focus: Health, Education, Living Standards.

·       Coverage extended to 2.87 crore beneficiaries in Telangana (Dec 2021).

·       Food grain: 6 kg per person at Rs. 1/kg, gas connections under DEEPAM Scheme to 18.9 lakh households.

·       Doubled outlay from Rs. 1,140 crore (2014) to Rs. 2,281 crore (2021).

COVID-19 response: Additional 10 kg rice to cardholders during 2nd wave, relief to private school staff.

Aasara Pension Scheme

·        Launched November 2014, supports vulnerable groups (elderly, widows, disabled, HIV/AIDS patients).

·        Pension increase (2019): Disabled persons – Rs. 3,016; others – Rs. 2,016.

·        Disbursed: Rs. 45,882 crore till January 2022, benefiting 38 lakh individuals annually.

Sheep Distribution Scheme

·        For Yadava and Kurma communities:

o   79.98 lakh sheep distributed to 3.81 lakh beneficiaries (2017-2021).

o   Phase II (2021-22): Unit cost increased from Rs. 1.25 lakh to Rs. 1.75 lakh.

Housing Programs

·        2-BHK Housing Program: Launched October 2015.

o   Sanctioned: 2.91 lakh houses, Rs. 10,445 crore spent till November 2021.

o   SC/ST reservation: 50% in rural areas, 17% SC and 6% ST in urban areas.

·        PMAY-U Award (2018-19): For e-governance in housing.

Economic Support Schemes

·        Economic Support: Financial aid for asset creation, skill training for SCs, STs, and weaker sections.

o   Launched 2017: Cash assistance of Rs. 12,000 (male) and Rs. 13,000 (female) for childbirth.

o   2020-21: 2,14,576 kits distributed.

2.      Cheyutha Scheme:

o   Free healthcare up to Rs. 10 lakh under Rajiv Arogyasri for 90.10 lakh families.

3.      Maha Lakshmi Scheme: Financial aid for women heads of families, subsidized gas cylinders, free TSRTC travel.

4.      Rythu Bandhu Scheme:

o   Launched 2018: Rs. 10,000 per acre/year financial aid for farmers.

5.      Pattana Pragathi Scheme: Launched Feb 2020 to promote street vending zones and offer working capital loans to vendors.

6.      MEPMA: Urban poverty alleviation through 1.76 lakh SHGs and Bank Linkage worth Rs. 1,382.78 crore to 1.55 lakh SHGs.

Notable Achievements

• Employment through Skills Training & Placement (EST&P): Trained 35,180 candidates, placed 17,233.

PMSVANidhi (2020): Telangana first to achieve 100% disbursement of 1st tranche loans under the street vendor support scheme.

Healthcare Initiatives

·        Aarogyasri Scheme: Provides Rs. 5 lakh coverage per family per year, aligned with Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY.

·        Kanti Velugu (2018): Universal eye screening, free spectacles distribution.

·        National Tobacco Control Programme: 90,000 challans issued since 2014.

·        National Mental Health Program: Screening app piloted across 9 districts, covering 1.8 crore people.

·        Female population 646 million (2021); 13.5% increase since 2010.

·        Sex Ratio: 1020 women per 1000 men; Kerala has highest at 1084, Haryana lowest at 879.

Telangana (2011 Census):

·        Total Population: 350.04 lakh (Male: 176.12 lakh, Female: 173.92 lakh).

·        Sex Ratio: 988 per 1000 males; Urban: 970, Rural: 999.

·        Literacy Rate: Female: 57.99%, Male: 75.04%.

Maternal Health Outcomes

·       Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR): Declined 43% (2010-12: 110 to 2016-18: 63); Telangana achieved SDG target (MMR below 70).

Institutional Care:

• ANC (2019-20): 88.5% women received antenatal care.
• Institutional Births: Almost 97% in NFHS-5 (2019-20); increased from 91.5% in NFHS-4.

·        Financial assistance: ₹12,000 (boy) & ₹13,000 (girl); Kit with 15 essential items.

·        Institutional deliveries in public hospitals increased from 30.5% (2015-16) to 49.7% (2019-20).

Amma Vodi Scheme (2018):

·        Free ambulance service for pregnant women; 300 vehicles operating.

·        2020-21: 10.85 lakh beneficiaries.

Aarogya Lakshmi:

·        Nutritious meals to pregnant/lactating mothers via Anganwadi Centres; Iron & Folic Acid tablets.

·        2021-22: Over 22 lakh beneficiaries.

Anaemia Mukt Bharat:

·        Tackles anemia; 95% pregnant women received 180 IFA tablets (Q4, 2021).

Kalyana Lakshmi/Shadi Mubarak (2014):

·        Financial aid of ₹1,00,116 for SC/ST/BC/Minority brides; Rs. 1,25,145 for disabled brides.

·        Over Rs. 8,085 crore disbursed to 8.2 lakh families by 2021.

Land Purchase Scheme (2014):

100% subsidy for land purchase; 16,993.27 acres distributed to 6,942 beneficiaries.

Women’s Security Initiatives

1. SHE Teams (2014):
   • Special Telangana Police division; handles offenses like eve-teasing, harassment.
   • 331 SHE Teams operational, handled 54,231 complaints (2014-21).
2. Sakhi (One-Stop) Centres (2017):
   • Integrated support for women facing violence; 32,114 cases handled.
3. BHAROSA Centres:
   • Support centers for abuse victims; established in Hyderabad (2016), Vikarabad, Warangal (2020).

Entrepreneurship & Economic Support

1. We-Hub (2017):
   • State-led incubator for women entrepreneurship; 1,495 startups incubated, Rs. 56.8 crore raised.
2. Mahila Shakti Kendras (MSKs):
   • One-stop centers for rural women’s empowerment; promotes skill development and awareness.
3. Supplementary Nutrition Programme (SNP):
   • Under ICDS, provides nutritious food to pregnant women, lactating mothers, and children.

Nutritional Programs

1. Balamrutham:
   • Weaning food for children (7 months to 3 years), fortified with essential nutrients.
2. Supplementary Nutrition Programme (SNP):
   • Target groups: Pregnant women, lactating mothers, and children (7 months to 6 years).

• Total children (0-6 years): 38,99,166 (Females: 18,81,231, Males: 20,17,935).
• Child Sex Ratio (CSR): 932 (Varies from 903 in Wanaparthy & Mahbubabad to 971 in Mulugu).

Child Health and Nutrition

• Children (0-6 years): 11.14% of Telangana’s population.
• Anganwadi Centres: 35,700 centres catering to child nutrition (31,711 main, 3989 mini).
• Health outcomes: Improved across neonatal services, immunization, IFA supplementation, etc.

Child Mortality Rates

• Under-5 Mortality Rate (U5MR): 29.4 (2019-20) from 31.7 (2015-16).
• Neonatal Mortality Rate (NMR): 16.8 (2019-20) from 20 (2015-16).
• Infant Mortality Rate (IMR): 23 (2019) from 35 (2014).
• Institutional births: Increased from 91.5% (2015-16) to 97% (2019-20).

• Fully immunized children under 2 years: 79.1% (2015-16) to 96% (2020-21).
• National programs: Mission Indradhanush (2014), Pulse Polio (1995), UIP (1985).

Child Healthcare Services

• PHCs: 314 round-the-clock Mother & Child Health Care Centres.
• Special care: 29 newborn care units, 46 stabilization units, 562 care corners.

Nutrition Rehabilitation Centres (NRCs)

• Total NRCs: 12 in the state; focuses on treating severe acute malnutrition (SAM).

Kangaroo Mother Care Centres

• KMC Centres: 22 in the state, providing breastfeeding and skin-to-skin contact care for low-birth-weight infants.

Supplementary Nutrition Program (SNP)

• Budget (2021-22): Rs. 13,923.44 crore; 81% utilized till November.
• Daily additional allocation: Rs. 1.79 (7 months-3 years), Rs. 1.96 (3-6 years), Rs. 5.75 (malnourished children).

Balamrutham

• Weaning food: 100 gm servings for children (7 months – 3 years); distributed monthly (2.5 Kg packets).
• Balamrutham Plus: Enhanced nutrition for SAM and MAM children.

Arogya Laxmi (2015)

• Nutritious meal scheme: Provides milk, eggs, rice, dal, vegetables for pregnant/lactating women and children.
• 2021 coverage: 18.96 lakh lactating mothers, 5.18 lakh infants, 21.58 lakh pregnant women.

POSHAN Abhiyaan (2018)

• Goal: Improve nutritional outcomes for children, pregnant/lactating women; focus on reducing stunting, undernutrition, and anemia.

Mission Indradhanush (2018)

• Target: Immunization for children (0-2 years) and pregnant women under Gram Swaraj Abhiyan.

Rashtriya Kishor Swasthya Karyakram (RKSK, 2014-15)

• Target group: Adolescents (10-19 years); aims to address their health issues.

Two-Worker Model in Anganwadi Centres (Tamil Nadu study)

• Results: Increased instructional time, improved child health outcomes, and a 34% reduction in severe malnutrition.

Key Initiatives:

·       Dalit Bandhu: Economic upliftment program providing Rs. 10 lakh per household.

·       Land Purchase Scheme: Purchase of agricultural land for SCs.

·       Kalyana Lakshmi: Financial assistance for SC marriages.

·       Aasara Pensions, KCR Kits, KCR Nutrition Kit: Social welfare and health initiatives.

·       Investment Support Scheme: Rs. 5000 per acre for farmers.

·       Telangana State SC & ST Special Development Fund Act (2017): Ensures fund allocation for SCs & STs.

Major Tribes: Gond, Koya, Banjara, Lambada, Yerukala, Chenchu, Kolam, among others.

Key Initiatives:

·       Kalyana Lakshmi: Financial aid for ST marriages.

·       Girijan Cooperative Corporation (GCC): Development body for STs.

·       Scheduled Castes & Scheduled Tribes Special Development Fund Act (2017): Earmarks funds for ST welfare.

·       Land Rights (Forest Rights Act 2006): Issued title certificates to 96,676 individuals (308,614 acres).

·       Giri Vikasam: Converted 18,228 acres for ST farmers (cost: Rs. 43.1 crore).

·       Free Electricity: Up to 101 units for domestic use, 250 units for Rajaka & Nayee Brahmin communities.

·       Stunting: 29.3% of children under 5 years.

·       Wasting: 17.9%, Severe Wasting: 5.6%.

·       Obesity: 47% of adults.

Government Programs:

·       Supervised Supplementary Feeding Program (SSFP): Targeting high prevalence of wasting in children (6-59 months).

·       Giriposhana: Tribal nutrition improvement project (collaboration with ICRISAT), providing Ready-to-Cook & Ready-to-Eat food products.

Education

·        Literacy Rate: 66.46% (2011 Census), lower than India’s 72.99%.

SC/ST Residential Schools:

·       134 TSWREIS Schools: 71,493 students (88 girls-only schools).

·       283 Ashram Schools: 85,843 ST students.

·       212 Hostels: 40,763 ST youth.

·       Skill Development Centers: 27 centers in polytechnics.

Scholarships:

·       Pre-Matric/Post-Matric: Rs. 402.54 crore (Pre), Rs. 7,153.11 crore (Post) between 2014-22.

·       Overseas Scholarships: Rs. 20 lakh per eligible SC/ST student (699 SC, 204 ST students benefited by 2022).

·        Dalit Bandhu: Rs. 10 lakh financial grant to SC families.

·        Special Development Funds (SDFs):

o   15.45% funds for SCs, 9.08% for STs.

o   Rs. 18,000 crore spent on SC/ST welfare in 2021-22.

Self-Employment and Entrepreneurship

·        T-PRIDE: Incentive scheme for SC, ST, and PHC entrepreneurs (Rs. 1052 crore for STs, Rs. 1032 crore for SCs by 2022).

·        Pavala Vaddi Scheme: Interest subsidy for SC loans (repayment incentives).

Reservation Policies

·        Reservation for SCs/STs/BCs:

o   SCs: 15%, STs: 6%, BCs: 25%, Minorities (BC-E): 4%, EWS: 10%.

·        Caste-Wise Census: Passed a resolution for a caste-wise census of BCs in 2021.

·        Aged Population:

o   Current: 104 million people above 60 years (8.6% of population).

o   Projections: Expected to reach 227 million by 2036 (15% of population), and 347 million by 2050 (20.8%).

Key Schemes for Disabled

·        Braille Press: Provides educational aids like Braille scripts, tape recordings, and textbooks in Telugu, Urdu, and English for the visually challenged.

·        Manufacture of Tricycles: Production of aids and appliances for the disabled in TCPCs.

·        Economic Rehabilitation Schemes:

o   Loans through NHFDC for disabled persons’ economic rehabilitation.

o   Schemes for skill development, entrepreneurship, microcredit, and NGOs working with disabled communities.

o   ADIP Scheme: Provides aids and appliances to disabled persons.

·        Marriage Incentive Award: Rs. 1,00,000 incentive for marrying a disabled person.

·        Economic Rehabilitation:

o   100% financial assistance for units up to Rs. 50,000.

o   Subsidy from 60%-80% for units between Rs. 50,000 and Rs. 10 lakh.

Educational Schemes for Disabled

• Pre-Matric Scholarships: Financial assistance ranging from Rs. 700 to Rs. 1,820 per year for classes I to X. Additional allowances for travel, prosthetics, and readers.
• Post-Matric Scholarships:

o   Reimbursement of Tuition Fee (RTF) for eligible disabled students.

o   Maintenance scholarships: Rs. 5000 (Intermediate/Degree), Rs. 6500 (PG/Professional).

Aasara Pension Scheme

• Monthly pension:

o   Rs. 1,000 for the elderly, HIV/AIDS patients, widows, incapacitated weavers, and toddy tappers.

• • Rs. 1,500 for disabled persons.
• Eligibility: Based on age, disability, income levels, and occupation, with specific criteria for each group (e.g., 65+ for elderly, 18+ for widows).

·        Shaadi Mubarak Scheme: Financial assistance of Rs. 75,116 for minority brides at the time of marriage.

·        Ramzan Dawath-e-Iftaar and Christmas Feast: Government-arranged dinners for poor Muslims and Christians, distribution of clothes and gifts.

Telangana Minorities & Christian Finance Corporation (TSMFC)

·        Subsidy cum Loan Scheme: Subsidized loans for self-employment, with subsidies ranging from 50%-80%.

·        Driver Empowerment Program: In partnership with SBI, Maruti Motors, and Uber, provides training and financial support for purchasing vehicles.

o   Subsidy: 60% or Rs. 5,00,000 (whichever is less).

·        Own Your Auto Scheme: Subsidy for three-wheeler auto rickshaws for minorities.

Education and Training

·        Minorities Study Circle: Free coaching for competitive exams like TSPSC, Staff Selection Commission, Bank PO, and Civil Services.

·        Training and Employment: Free skill development training in various sectors (IT, security, driving, tailoring) for minority youth.

Telangana Minorities Residential Schools

·        160 Residential Schools: Established for minority students, with 71 schools opened in 2016 (39 boys, 32 girls).

Centrally Sponsored Schemes

·        National Scholarships Portal: Streamlined system for minority scholarships (Pre-Matric, Post-Matric, Merit-cum-Means).

·        Nai Roshini: Women empowerment scheme for knowledge, skills, and confidence-building.

·        Naya Savera: Free coaching for minority students for competitive exams.

·        Seekho Aur Kamao (Learn & Earn): Skill development for minority youth, providing employment/self-employment opportunities.

·        USTTAD: Support for minority artisans through “Hunar Haats” for showcasing their skills.

Government Initiatives for Minorities

·        Gharib Nawaz Employment Training Program: Short-term job-oriented training for minority youth.

·        Nai Manzil Scheme: Education and skill development for minority youth.