In a significant turnaround, the Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TGSRTC) has moved into profitability, a feat attributed by the state's Deputy Chief Minister, Bhatti Vikramarka, to the transformative Mahalakshmi scheme. The announcement came during a high-level review meeting held at Praja Bhavan in Hyderabad on Sunday.
Mahalakshmi Scheme: A Catalyst for Change and Empowerment
Bhatti Vikramarka, who also holds the portfolio for Transport and BC Welfare, stated that the government's flagship Mahalakshmi scheme has been instrumental in revitalizing the public transporter. Under this scheme, which offers free bus travel to women across the state, a staggering 255 crore free journeys have been recorded to date. The Deputy CM emphasized that this initiative marks a substantial step forward in women's empowerment in Telangana.
To streamline the process and ensure no woman is left out, Vikramarka directed officials to formalize an agreement with the Centre for Good Governance. This partnership aims to facilitate the efficient distribution of special cards that enable women to avail of the free travel benefit, ensuring the scheme's reach extends to every corner of the state.
Financial Revival and Infrastructure Push
The Congress government has undertaken decisive steps to strengthen RTC's financial health and improve worker welfare. Vikramarka revealed impressive progress in clearing long-standing dues. Since the government's formation, Provident Fund (PF) liabilities have been slashed from Rs 1,400 crore to Rs 660 crore. Similarly, CCS (Contributory Pension Scheme) dues were reduced from Rs 600 crore to Rs 373 crore.
Looking to the future, the state is charging ahead with a major green mobility initiative. As part of the PM E-Drive scheme, 2,800 electric buses will be introduced in Hyderabad, with an additional 100 earmarked for Nizamabad and Warangal. The Deputy CM instructed officials to expedite the creation of necessary charging stations and supporting infrastructure to ensure the seamless rollout of this electric fleet.
Broader Focus on Welfare and Education
The review meeting also covered broader social welfare and education agendas. Vikramarka issued directives for the timely distribution of uniforms, books, and shoes to students before the new academic year begins, asking the finance department to coordinate the effort.
In a move supporting specific communities, he ordered the regular release of free electricity bills provided by the government to Nai Brahmin and Rajaka community associations. On the education front, the government has approved 100 integrated schools and begun constructing corporate-style buildings to upgrade infrastructure. Furthermore, a sum of Rs 152 crore has been released for mess and cosmetic charges in Gurukuls, underscoring the administration's special focus on the education sector.
The overall picture presented by the Deputy CM is one of a government actively working on multiple fronts—from making public transport profitable and eco-friendly to bolstering welfare schemes and revolutionizing educational infrastructure—with the empowering Mahalakshmi scheme at the heart of a significant public transport revival.
