Telangana aims for global recognition, says Revanth Reddy

HYDERABAD: Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy pledged to transform Telangana into a global destination.

Speaking at the 10th-anniversary celebrations of Telangana State Formation at Parade Grounds on Sunday, the Chief Minister stressed the importance of collective effort from the state's four crore people, along with cooperation from political, administrative, press, judicial, and social systems.

The Chief Minister emphasized the need for everyone to contribute to making Telangana a guiding force and a role model for the world. "We need to think every moment about making Telangana a guiding force and a role model for the world," he stated. He expressed his desire to see the Telangana flag flown proudly domestically and internationally, highlighting the transformation of rural areas from hardship to prosperity.

Revanth Reddy underscored the potential of the youth, urging those who migrated to urban areas for livelihoods to showcase Telangana's competence globally. He declared that Telangana, backed by its rich history and sacrifices, possessed the power, intelligence, and determination to compete on the world stage.

During the decennial celebration, the Chief Minister paid homage to the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the statehood movement. He extended special gratitude to former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi for realizing the long-cherished dream of a separate Telangana.

Revanth Reddy reiterated his government's commitment to restoring freedom and social justice. Initiatives mentioned included removing barriers between the rulers and the ruled, renaming Pragati Bhavan to Mahatma Jyoti Rao Phule Praja Bhavan, and introducing the Praja Vani program to address public grievances directly.

The Chief Minister announced significant steps towards cultural and economic revival. He declared the song "Jaya Jayahe Telangana" the official state song, describing it as the first step towards cultural renaissance. Additionally, the government was working on creating a new state emblem that reflects the aspirations of various communities. "Janani janmabhoomischa swargadapi gariyasi" – the mother and the land that gives birth are more significant than heaven. Telangana Talli, embodying the aspirations of four crore people, would be designed to reflect the spirit of an average Telangana rural woman – a hard worker and generous soul," he announced.

Revanth Reddy said that the revival of the state economy was a priority. He said the state's economy was in dire straits with a debt burden of Rs 7 lakh crore when the current government came to power. He said the state government presented a white paper in the Assembly explaining the facts to the people. "The government is committed to strengthening the economic condition while prioritizing welfare and development," he said.

He stated that a strong foundation was being laid with long-term plans for future generations. The "Green Telangana—2050 Master Plan" divided the state into urban, sub-Urban, and Rural zones. The government would clearly outline development plans and infrastructure requirements for these zones.

"The Musi riverfront development project aimed to transform the Musi catchment area into an employment generation zone. Rs 1000 crore had been allocated for this project, which was expected to enhance Hyderabad's brand image. The project included tourism, economic, and environmental aspects and would address irrigation needs. The government announced plans to expand Metro Rail to meet growing transportation needs and complete the Regional Ring Road as soon as possible. Irrigation projects were a priority to provide more water at lower costs," he said.

He added that the state government was determined to eradicate drug abuse. TSNAB had been empowered to curb drug smuggling, and sufficient funds had been allocated to root out the menace. Reddy emphasized that a drug-free Telangana was a commitment of both the government and himself personally.

He mentioned several welfare schemes underway, including free bus travel for women, girls, and transgenders and the Indiramma housing scheme, which aimed to construct 4,50,000 houses for the poor.

The Chief Minister said Telangana was being promoted as an education hub with plans to set up model schools and a Skill University. Infrastructure improvements in schools, including safe drinking water and electricity, were part of the Amma Adarsha Schools program.

He noted that the government continued to support farmers with free electricity, loan waivers, and financial assistance schemes. Compensation for crop damage and purchasing damaged paddy were also part of the support measures.

He affirmed that the state was supplying uninterrupted power for domestic and industrial needs, setting a new record for power supply. Agreements with global investors during the Davos visit were expected to bring in Rs 40,000 crore in investments, creating employment opportunities for the youth. He said the Mahalakshmi scheme aimed to promote one crore women as millionaires. The government provided marketing facilities for products made by women's groups and launched a scheme to supply cooking gas at Rs 500 per cylinder.

Revanth Reddy highlighted the need to resolve water-sharing issues with Andhra Pradesh, particularly concerning the Krishna and Godavari rivers. The government planned to develop irrigation facilities efficiently.

"Telangana aims to become a guiding force and a role model for the world, with Hyderabad developing into the world's number one brand. The rural areas of Telangana, once marked by hardship, are now poised for prosperity," he said.

Earlier in the day, the Chief Minister paid tributes to Telangana martyrs at Martyrs Memorial, Gun Park, on the occasion of Telangana State Formation Day.