Hyderabad: Labour, Employment and Mines Minister G. Vivek Venkatswamy said addressing public issues remains the core objective of the Congress government, emphasising its focus on people-centric governance.
He made these remarks during the inauguration of a Congress party office in Siddipet, where several leaders and workers from the BRS joined the party. According to him, public support for the Congress is steadily increasing across Telangana.
Addressing public issues through welfare and empowerment
The minister highlighted that the government is prioritising welfare schemes, especially for women. He noted that around ₹9,000 crore has been spent over the past two years on free bus travel for women, which has significantly improved mobility and access to opportunities.
In addition, he said ₹23,000 crore has been allocated under interest-free loan and bank linkage schemes. These initiatives aim to strengthen women’s financial independence and encourage self-employment. As a result, many beneficiaries are able to improve their livelihoods.
He stressed that such programmes reflect the government’s commitment to inclusive growth. Moreover, he said welfare initiatives are designed to directly address public needs and improve quality of life.
Addressing public issues amid criticism of previous regime
Criticising the previous government led by K. Chandrashekar Rao, Vivek said the state’s financial position deteriorated significantly. He alleged that a surplus-budget state was pushed into a debt burden of nearly ₹8 lakh crore.
Furthermore, he pointed out that substantial funds are being spent every month on interest payments. Referring to the Kaleshwaram project, he claimed that nearly ₹1 lakh crore was spent, with around ₹20,000 crore still being paid as interest. He added that these funds could have been used to build better public infrastructure, including hospitals.
The minister also alleged large-scale land encroachments during the previous regime. However, he said the current government is working to correct such issues while focusing on development.
On the welfare front, he announced that pensions will be sanctioned for an additional two lakh beneficiaries in the upcoming budget. Additionally, he said 3,500 Indiramma houses have already been approved for Siddipet, with another 3,500 to be allotted soon.
Overall, Vivek reiterated that addressing public issues will remain the government’s top priority, alongside welfare expansion and infrastructure development.
