The Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) recently unveiled its manifesto, promising a host of transformative initiatives aimed at improving the lives of underprivileged citizens. In a press conference on October 15th, party president and Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao outlined these pledges, highlighting their commitment to uplift the marginalized sections of society.
Life Insurance for BPL Families
One of the standout promises in the BRS manifesto is the provision of life insurance coverage of ₹5 lakh to over 93 lakh Below Poverty Line (BPL) families. This initiative takes inspiration from the successful Rythu Bima program, which extends insurance to farmers. By extending similar coverage to BPL families, the BRS aims to provide a much-needed safety net to those who are economically vulnerable.
Ensuring Food Security
The BRS manifesto emphasizes the importance of food security by pledging to supply superfine rice through the public distribution system to all ration card holders. This commitment falls under the Telangana Annapurna scheme, with the goal of ensuring that no family goes to bed hungry. This move can significantly alleviate the burdens of low-income households and contribute to improving their overall quality of life.
Monthly Honorarium for Eligible Women
Under the Saubhagya Laxmi scheme, the BRS has promised to provide a monthly honorarium of ₹3,000 to eligible women. This initiative recognizes the invaluable contributions of women in households and communities and aims to provide them with economic empowerment.
Aasara Pension Enhancement
K. Chandrashekar Rao announced a substantial increase in the Aasara pension amount for various vulnerable groups, including old-aged individuals, single women, differently-abled individuals, and others. The monthly pension will be raised in a phased manner, with the ultimate goal of increasing it to ₹5,000 for old-aged and single women and ₹6,000 for the physically challenged. This increase will provide financial relief to those who need it the most.
Rythu Bandhu Expansion
The BRS plans to enhance the benefits of the Rythu Bandhu scheme, which currently provides support to farmers. The proposed increase will raise the annual support to ₹16,000 per acre, a significant boost from the existing ₹10,000. This augmentation will be implemented in phases to ensure a smooth transition and efficient distribution of resources.
Domestic Gas Cylinders for BPL Families
Addressing the energy needs of BPL families, the BRS manifesto includes a promise to provide domestic gas cylinders at an affordable price of ₹400. This move aims to make clean cooking fuel accessible to economically disadvantaged households, contributing to improved health and living conditions.
Healthcare Reform Under Aarogya Sri
Under the Aarogya Sri health scheme, the BRS pledges to expand treatment coverage to ₹15 lakh, which includes coverage for accredited journalists. This initiative will enhance access to quality healthcare and reduce the financial burden on families during medical emergencies.
Continuation of Welfare Schemes
The BRS is committed to continuing key welfare schemes, including the double-bedroom housing and Gruhalaxmi schemes, and providing house sites to the poor. These initiatives play a pivotal role in addressing the housing needs of the marginalized.
Residential Schools for Unreserved Communities
In a bid to attract and serve the unreserved communities, the BRS has announced the opening of one residential school in each of the 119 constituencies. This move will facilitate access to quality education for students from these communities.
Old Pension Scheme for Employees
Recognizing the concerns of employees, the BRS manifesto assures the formation of a committee to examine the possibility of reinstating the old pension scheme, offering an alternative to the current pension system.
Rights Over Assigned Lands
The BRS manifesto commits to providing complete rights over assigned lands to those who hold them, ensuring that they can manage and dispose of their land as needed.
Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS)
The Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS), formerly known as the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS), is an Indian political party primarily operating in the state of Telangana. It was established on April 27, 2001, by K. Chandrashekar Rao, with the primary objective of achieving statehood for Telangana, with Hyderabad as its capital. The party has played a pivotal role in leading a consistent movement for the creation of a separate Telangana state.