Hyderabad: Telangana CM Pledges 60 Assembly Seats for Women
Bold Commitment to Women’s Representation
Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy announced that the Congress party will allocate 60 assembly seats to women in the upcoming elections. Speaking at the Vana Mahotsavam 2025 event in Rajendranagar, he underscored the government’s dedication to women’s empowerment.
Legislative Expansion and Reservation
With the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act promising an increase in assembly seats from 119 to 153, Reddy pledged to exceed the mandated 33% women’s reservation, ensuring 60 seats. This move aligns with the Women’s Reservation Act, aiming to amplify female voices in governance.
Economic Empowerment Initiatives
The Congress government has allocated ₹21,000 crore in bank linkages to women’s self-help groups (SHGs) this year. Programs like Indira Shakti canteens, bus procurement for RTC, and solar projects are designed to bolster women’s financial independence.
Critique of Previous Administration
Reddy criticized the former BRS government for excluding women from its cabinet during its decade-long tenure. In contrast, he highlighted Congress’s commitment to fostering women’s leadership at all governance levels.
Vision for Women’s Prosperity
The Chief Minister reiterated the goal of empowering one crore women through SHGs, aiming to make them financially self-sufficient. Initiatives like land titles and ration cards draw inspiration from Indira Gandhi’s legacy.
Environmental Call to Action
At the Vana Mahotsavam launch, Reddy planted a rudraksha sapling, urging mothers to nurture two trees per household. The state targets planting 18.03 crore saplings this year to transform Telangana into a green haven.
Political Legacy and Accountability
Citing Rajiv Gandhi’s push for women’s reservations in local bodies, Reddy noted that leaders like Mayor Gadwal Vijayalakshmi owe their roles to such policies. He vowed to personally ensure women’s electoral success.