State Unveils Multi-Pronged Push for Skills, Welfare and Traditional Livelihoods

Telangana is set to intensify efforts to improve the quality of life and learning environment in Backward Class( BC) Gurukulams and hostels , with a renewed focus on cleanliness, nutrition, skill development, and livelihood support for Backward Class communities.

Reviewing the functioning of BC welfare institutions at a high-level meeting in the Secretariat on Tuesday, BC Welfare and Transport Minister Ponnam Prabhakar directed officials to ensure that student welfare remains the department's top priority. The review came nearly three weeks after the commencement of the new academic year, providing an opportunity to assess the implementation of decisions taken during earlier meetings.

The minister instructed officials to transform residential institutions into “Clean and Green” campuses , emphasizing hygiene, sanitation, and greenery as essential components of a healthy learning environment. He also stressed that the government-approved menu must be implemented without deviation across all Gurukulams and hostels, ensuring that students receive nutritious and balanced meals.

Highlighting the importance of accountability, Prabhakar asked district-level BC welfare officials to closely monitor institutions and maintain high standards of administration. He also encouraged public representatives to make regular visits to hostels and Gurukulams to assess facilities and address issues affecting students.

In a move aimed at expanding educational and career opportunities, the minister called for the formation of a special committee to strengthen BC Study Circles . Besides enhancing Civil Services coaching, he urged officials to broaden the scope of vocational training and skill development programmes , drawing inspiration from successful models implemented in cities such as Delhi and Ahmedabad. The initiative is expected to improve employability and help BC youth access emerging career opportunities.

The meeting also reviewed preparations for the Kulavruthula Mela (Traditional Occupations Fair) , scheduled to begin on July 16 at the HMDA Grounds in Hyderabad . Prabhakar said artisans and practitioners of traditional occupations from all communities should be given equal opportunities to showcase their skills and products. The fair is expected to serve as a platform for promoting traditional livelihoods while connecting craftsmen directly with consumers.

To strengthen economic empowerment, particularly among women, the minister directed officials to prepare comprehensive guidelines for implementing the sewing machine scheme and expand skill-based training programmes. He also sought proposals for enhancing economic support schemes that can create sustainable self-employment opportunities for BC beneficiaries.

Prabhakar further asked officials to submit a detailed report on the distribution of laptops to Gurukulam students who secured admission to premier institutions such as the IITs and IIMs , underscoring the government's commitment to supporting academic excellence among students from disadvantaged backgrounds.

The minister also instructed the BC Welfare Commissioner and Gurukulam authorities to conduct regular surprise inspections to ensure quality facilities and services. Additionally, officials were directed to complete the distribution of Katamayya Rakshana Kavacham kits in districts where trained beneficiaries are yet to receive them.

The review reflects the government's broader strategy of combining educational support, skill development, traditional livelihood promotion, and social welfare measures to improve opportunities for Backward Class communities across Telangana.