Telangana increases budget for SCs and STs
The Congress government in Hyderabad announced a significant budget for the welfare of marginalized communities. They allocated funds for Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), Backward Classes (BCs), and minorities for the 2025-26 financial year. The government plans to spend 40,232 crore rupees on SC welfare, 17,169 crore on ST welfare, 11,405 crore on BC welfare, and 3,591 crore on minority welfare. This is an increase from the previous year's total of 62,383 crore to 72,397 crore, adding 10,014 crore more. Experts believe that the current government has better survey data about these communities due to its recent caste survey. If the Congress government uses this data effectively, it could improve welfare schemes for the communities in need. Finance Minister Bhatti Vikramarka criticized the previous BRS government for not implementing the SC/ST sub-plan. He stated that their government is committed to following this law strictly and is releasing funds that have been pending since 2023-24. This commitment reflects their dedication to supporting SC and ST communities.