BC Welfare Minister Directs Enhanced Implementation of Support Schemes and Hostel Standards

Hyderabad: During a review meeting held at the Secretariat on Tuesday, Transport and BC Welfare Minister Ponnam Prabhakar outlined a series of directives aimed at strengthening the execution of backward caste welfare initiatives. The minister emphasized that the department must place greater focus on student welfare, educational quality, and job creation opportunities.

Among his key instructions, Prabhakar called for enhanced maintenance standards at BC Gurukuls and residential facilities, requiring that surroundings be kept clean and well-maintained. He also mandated strict adherence to government-approved meal plans across all institutions without deviation.

District-level BC Welfare Officers have been instructed to demonstrate greater accountability and dedicate their efforts to student welfare. The minister also appealed to elected representatives to conduct regular visits to Gurukuls and hostels to oversee conditions and services provided.

Strengthening coaching and skill development

To bolster BC Study Circles, Prabhakar directed the formation of a specialized committee tasked with examining effective models operating in Delhi and Ahmedabad. The minister expressed his expectation that Telangana would incorporate proven practices from these cities to enhance coaching programmes, vocational training, and skill development initiatives.

Additional measures announced by the minister include ensuring fair representation of all traditional occupations at the caste occupations fair, scheduled to commence on July 16 at the HMDA Grounds. The department has also been instructed to formulate comprehensive guidelines for rolling out a sewing machine scheme targeting women beneficiaries.

Prabhakar requested a detailed assessment regarding the distribution of laptops to Gurukul students who have secured admission to IITs and IIMs. He further directed senior officials to undertake unannounced inspections of Gurukuls and hostels to verify that student facilities meet required standards.

In another directive, the minister instructed the department to expedite the distribution of Katamayya Rakshana Kavacham kits to districts where eligible beneficiaries remain awaiting receipt of these materials.

The review meeting was attended by BC Welfare Secretary Balamayadevi, Gurukul Secretary Saidulu, and other senior officials from the department.