Telangana Boosts Minority Welfare Under Rajiv Yuva Vikasam

The minority community in Hyderabad has welcomed the allocation of 840 crore under the Rajiv Yuva Vikasam Scheme for minority youth, calling it one of the highest budgetary provisions for self-employment initiatives. The government has earmarked a total of 3,591 crore for minority welfare in the 2025-26 financial year, marking an increase from the 3,003 crore allocated in 2024-25.

Experts believe this move will empower unemployed youth from minority communities by providing them with financial independence. Under the Rajiv Yuva Vikasam Scheme, eligible unemployed individuals from SC, ST, BC, and minority communities will receive financial assistance of up to 4 lakh, with 840 crore specifically set aside for minority youth. Community leaders have expressed hope that the scheme will not only create self-employment opportunities but also foster entrepreneurship among young people.

Government advisor Mohd Ali Shabbir called it one of the most progressive budgets for Telangana's minorities, highlighting the 3,591 crore allocation as a step toward promoting education, employment, and entrepreneurship. He also welcomed the increased government support for the Haj pilgrimage, noting that Telangana had sent a record 11,446 devotees in 2024, the highest in history.

Shabbir Ali emphasized that the 840 crore self-employment initiative would enable minority youth to achieve economic independence and receive entrepreneurial support. He also praised the integration of Young India Minority Residential Schools into the state's flagship educational programs, ensuring equal learning opportunities for minority students. He stressed that high-quality education is essential to breaking the cycle of poverty and that the government is committed to providing Muslim, Christian, Sikh, Jain, and other minority students with education on par with private institutions.

However, BRS leader Shaik Abdullah Sohail criticized the Congress government for failing to meet its 4,000 crore budget promise for minority welfare in 2025-26. While acknowledging the increase from the 3,003 crore allocated in 2024-25, he pointed out that it fell short of the 4,000 crore pledged in the 2023 election manifesto. He also questioned the absence of the promised 1,000 crore in annual subsidized loans meant to help minority youth and women start businesses. "Where is this 1,000 crore?" he asked, accusing the government of not fulfilling its commitments.