A beacon of hope is emerging for vulnerable women across Telangana, as widows and those who have been abandoned will soon be eligible to apply for a substantial government grant of ₹50,000. This initiative aims to provide a robust foundation for them to achieve financial independence.
The Telangana State Minorities Finance Corporation (TGSMFC), operating under the Minorities Welfare Department, proudly launched this impactful scheme in a virtual ceremony attended by Minister Adluri Laxman Kumar.
According to TGSMFC Chairman Obeidullah Kotwal, speaking exclusively to The Hindu, the ‘Indira Amma Minorities Mahila Yojana Scheme’ is a game-changer. It provides a 100% subsidized grant of ₹50,000 to each eligible woman, specifically targeting widows, divorced women, single women living in poverty, and those who have been deserted by their husbands.
This significant step is designed to empower these women, helping them gain financial stability and autonomy. To apply, prospective beneficiaries will need to provide essential documents such as their Aadhaar card, a food security or ration card, and, if applicable, their caste certificate or divorce/khula documents.
Furthermore, Mr. Kotwal highlighted another crucial initiative: the ‘Revanth Anna Ka Sahara Miskeeon Ke Liye’ scheme. This program is set to distribute new mopeds and two-wheelers to economically disadvantaged members of the Pasmanda Muslim community, encompassing groups like the Fukhra Jamath, Sanchara Muslim, and Kasha Muslim Jamath.
Officials confirmed that the core objective of this initiative is to equip beneficiaries with the necessary tools to undertake income-generating activities, significantly enhancing their livelihood prospects.
“We have earmarked a substantial ₹25 crore for the widows’ scheme, aiming to support 5,000 beneficiaries in its initial phase,” stated Mr. Obeidullah. For the two-wheeler program, a budget of ₹5 crore has been allocated, with plans to assist 500 beneficiaries.
In another thoughtful provision, generators will be supplied to members of the Kasha Muslim Jamath. This will enable them to power their tools for breaking stones and rocks, a traditional livelihood that this community has pursued for generations.
“Our recent survey revealed that between 7,000 and 10,000 individuals belong to this community. The strategy is to provide a generator set to each group of five people. An comprehensive action plan is currently under development,” he added. This particular scheme is projected to receive an allocation of approximately ₹15 crore.