In a significant development announcement for Telangana, Union Coal Minister G Kishan Reddy on Monday revealed a comprehensive series of infrastructure and development initiatives during a media briefing at the state BJP office in Hyderabad. The minister confirmed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will soon lay the foundation stone for the crucial third phase of the Multi-Modal Transport System project, which will enhance connectivity between Hyderabad and the important pilgrimage destination of Yadagirigutta.
Budget Focus on Development, Not Freebies
Addressing the media, Kishan Reddy strongly countered claims that the Union Budget primarily focuses on freebies, accusing major political parties of misleading the public with such narratives. He emphasized that the budget was meticulously framed with the visionary goal of building a developed India rather than being influenced by electoral considerations. The minister highlighted that this development-oriented approach is clearly reflected in the substantial allocations made for Telangana across various sectors.
Massive Housing Initiative for Telangana
One of the standout announcements was the significant housing support sanctioned for the state. Under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, the central government has approved an impressive 4.5 lakh houses for Telangana. This allocation includes 1.3 lakh houses designated for urban areas and three lakh houses for rural regions, representing a total financial outlay of ₹4,350 crore. This initiative aims to address housing shortages and improve living standards across both urban and rural populations in the state.
Substantial Boost for Research and Technology
Kishan Reddy also drew attention to the substantial budgetary provisions earmarked for research and advanced technology development in Telangana. The Union Budget has allocated ₹406 crore specifically for the Atomic Minerals Directorate, alongside nearly ₹3,000 crore for premier research institutions. These include the Advanced Research Centre for Powder Metallurgy and New Materials and the Centre for DNA Fingerprinting and Diagnostics, both of which are expected to receive significant funding to enhance their research capabilities and technological advancements.
Hyderabad as Emerging Hub of Excellence
Emphasizing Hyderabad's growing stature as a hub of hubs in information technology, education, and healthcare, the minister cited several key initiatives. These include the ambitious ₹10,000 crore BioPharma Shakti programme and the proposed upgradation of the National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research. These projects are designed to strengthen Hyderabad's position as a leading center for innovation and excellence in these critical sectors.
Major Infrastructure Projects Receiving Central Support
The Union minister assured that major infrastructure projects in Telangana would continue to receive robust central government support. This includes national highway works valued at ₹42,000 crore and the significant ₹10,297 crore Hyderabad-Vijayawada corridor project. These infrastructure developments are expected to enhance connectivity, boost economic growth, and improve transportation efficiency across the region.
Progress on AIIMS Bibinagar Project
Regarding the AIIMS Bibinagar project, Kishan Reddy provided an optimistic update, stating that the institute is expected to be completed by the end of the current year. The facility, which features 750 beds and is equipped with advanced medical equipment, already has several key services operational. A 24-storey hostel complex is currently under construction, over 1,000 staff members have been recruited, and emergency services with 220 beds have been functional since January 1, marking significant progress toward full operational capacity.
Criticism of Political Parties
During his address, Kishan Reddy also leveled serious allegations against both the Congress and BRS parties. He accused them of exploiting and mismanaging Singareni Collieries for their own political and personal interests. Additionally, he mentioned internal divisions among ministers concerning the Naini coal tenders, highlighting ongoing challenges in the state's coal sector management.
