Hyderabad, Jan 26 (UNI) Telangana celebrated the 76th Republic Day with grandeur and pride, marked by vibrant cultural events, ceremonial parades, and the announcement of transformative initiatives.

Addressing the gathering at the official celebrations held at Parade Grounds on Sunday, Governor Jishnu Dev Varma reaffirmed Telangana’s unwavering commitment to constitutional values, inclusivity, and progress.

He urged citizens to draw inspiration from Rabindranath Tagore’s words, emphasising the state’s mission to build a united and progressive Telangana rooted in democracy, liberty, welfare, and equity.

The Governor highlighted Telangana’s efforts to preserve and promote its cultural heritage. He praised the unveiling of the Telangana Talli statue and the declaration of "Jaya Jayahe Telangana Janani Jaya Ketana" as the state’s official song. Cultural icons such as (Late) Sri Gaddar and Sri Gorati Venkanna received unprecedented recognition for their contributions, with awards including Rs 1 crore, land allocations, and citations, reflecting the government’s commitment to honoring those who have enriched Telangana’s cultural identity.

In agriculture, Telangana has emerged as a national leader, achieving record paddy production of 1.59 crore tonnes during the 2024 rainy season. The government implemented several farmer-centric initiatives, including the Rs 2 lakh crop loan waiver that benefited over 25 lakh farmers, and enhanced financial assistance of Rs 12,000 per acre under the Rythu Bharosa scheme.

To support landless agricultural laborers, the Indiramma Aathmeeya Bharosa program provided financial assistance of Rs 12,000 per family. The establishment of Rythu Vedikas and the operationalization of Rythu Nestham in rural mandals fostered collaboration among farmers, scientists, and administrators, further strengthening agricultural development.

The Governor lauded the state’s initiatives for women’s empowerment, particularly the Mahalakshmi Scheme, which enabled free bus travel for women, saving Rs 4,501.10 crore across over 133 crore trips.

Additional measures included subsidized LPG cylinders, free electricity for families consuming up to 200 units, and financial assistance under the Indira Mahila Shakti initiative, which aims to foster entrepreneurship and self-reliance among women.

Youth empowerment and education were also spotlighted, with the establishment of the Young India Skill University and financial aid for civil services aspirants under the Rajiv Gandhi Civils Abhaya Hastham Scheme. The government’s focus on employment was underscored by the recruitment of over 55,000 youth into government jobs in the past year, alongside reforms to the Telangana State Public Service Commission to ensure transparent recruitment processes.

Healthcare advancements included the expansion of Arogyasri coverage to Rs 10 lakh per beneficiary, the addition of 163 new treatments, and plans to establish eight new medical colleges in the state. Enhanced nutrition support for students in government hostels further demonstrated the government’s commitment to improving education and well-being for underprivileged communities.

Infrastructure projects showcased Telangana’s focus on sustainable urban development. The expansion of the metro rail network and the Musi River Rejuvenation Project emphasized ecological balance and improved urban living conditions. Renewable energy initiatives, including the allocation of a 1,000 MW solar power project to women’s Self-Help Groups (SHGs), highlighted the state’s commitment to sustainability and women’s economic empowerment.

Social justice and inclusivity were central to the Governor’s address. A comprehensive socio-economic survey was launched to address equity gaps and develop evidence-based policies. Welfare programs targeted marginalized communities, including Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, Backward Classes, and minorities, with initiatives like the Telangana Chenetha Abhaya Hastham Scheme and the distribution of two sarees annually to women in SHGs, symbolizing the state’s dedication to inclusivity and tradition.

In his concluding remarks, the Governor reaffirmed Telangana’s commitment to liberty, equality, and justice, urging citizens to unite in transforming the state into a beacon of progress and inclusivity for the nation. With its focus on cultural pride, agricultural prosperity, women’s empowerment, and sustainable development, Telangana continues to exemplify a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity.
UNI VV GNK