Telangana government plans pension hike after local body polls
HYDERABAD: The Telangana government is preparing to increase social security pensions, with an official announcement expected soon. The decision is likely to be implemented after the completion of local body elections, sources said.
Most Congress guarantees already rolled out
The Congress had promised six guarantees ahead of the Telangana Assembly elections and came to power largely on the strength of these commitments. Since assuming office, the Revanth Reddy-led government has implemented most of them, reinforcing public confidence in its poll assurances.
The government launched free bus travel for women within two days of taking office on December 7, 2018, rolling out the scheme from December 9. The programme continues to operate successfully across the state.
Free electricity up to 200 units has been implemented. Farm loan waivers of up to ₹2 lakh have been extended to eligible farmers. Under the Mahalakshmi scheme, LPG cylinders are being supplied at ₹500. Paddy farmers are receiving a ₹500 bonus, while Indiramma housing construction has begun. The government has also implemented the ₹5 lakh Vidya Bharosa education assurance card under the Yuva Vikasam scheme.
However, the ₹2,000 monthly assistance promised to women from backward classes is yet to be implemented.
Pension increase under active consideration
The government is now moving towards implementing another key election promise increasing pensions for senior citizens and widows. Sources said the Chief Minister’s Office has sought details on the financial burden on the state exchequer and the projected monthly expenditure.
In neighbouring states, beneficiaries receive pensions of ₹4,000 per month. The Telangana government is considering a similar increase.
Over 40 lakh beneficiaries
Telangana currently has about 12,30,000 senior citizens, five lakh persons with disabilities, nearly 20 lakh widows, 36,872 handloom workers, 62,164 toddy tappers, 4,07,374 beedi workers, 1,33,936 single women, 32,718 HIV patients, and over 30,000 artistes eligible for pensions.
At present, beneficiaries receive ₹2,116 per month. The Congress had promised to raise this to ₹4,000 before the elections. It remains unclear whether the government will implement the hike in phases or roll it out in one go. A final decision is expected soon.
