The Telangana state cabinet meeting, initially scheduled for Thursday, has been rescheduled to May 23. The change was made in view of the ‘Saraswati Antya Pushkarams’ commencing on May 21, according to sources.
Change in Venue and Date
The cabinet meeting was originally proposed to be held in Yadagirigutta, as Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy is also scheduled to inaugurate a Vedic School in the temple town on Saturday. However, late on Tuesday night, it was reportedly learned that the government changed its decision and that the cabinet meeting would instead be held at the secretariat on May 23.
Agenda for the Meeting
The meeting is likely to discuss austerity measures to be implemented in government departments and the Chief Minister’s Office, following the appeal made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Other issues expected to come up before the cabinet include:
- Plans to launch phase-II of Indiramma housing
- Rollout of two lakh new Cheyutha monthly pensions
- Launch of other welfare schemes
- Inaugurations and stone-laying ceremonies
- Programmes to be organized for Telangana state formation day on June 2
The meeting is also expected to discuss the proposed private schools fee regulating and monitoring commission bill, talks with Maharashtra on Tummidihatti, Metro rail expansion, and Rajiv Yuva Vikasam, among other issues.
Austerity Measures
Meanwhile, the state government is making elaborate arrangements for the Telangana Formation Day celebrations at Parade Grounds in Secunderabad on June 2. Sources said the government departments have been working on proposals to adopt austerity measures aimed at saving energy, fuel, and reducing pollution, among other objectives. These proposals are expected to be placed before the cabinet. Telangana Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla had already announced a 50% reduction in his official convoy, cutting the number of vehicles from six to three. Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy’s convoy has reportedly been reduced from nine to four.
The proposed austerity measures include:
- Holding online review meetings
- Reducing the use of air conditioners in government offices
- Prohibiting foreign travel unless absolutely necessary
- A hybrid model with one or two days of work from home, among others
The state cabinet is likely to take a call on these proposals.
Antya Pushkarams
The ‘Basara Saraswati Antya Pushkarams’, regarded as one of the most sacred and spiritual festivals in the state, are set to commence on May 21. The Telangana government is making elaborate arrangements for the Antya Pushkarams, which are being held at the Basara shrine situated on the banks of the Godavari River.
