Hyderabad: In a move to address unemployment and empower marginalised communities, the Congress govt has announced the launch of the Rajiv Yuva Vikasam scheme. Aimed at providing self-employment opportunities to youth from SC, ST, BC, and minority communities, this initiative promises up to Rs 3 lakh to eligible individuals, with an investment of Rs 6,000 crore to benefit around five lakh youth.
Sources added that some of the scheme’s finer details needed to be worked out and will be provided with the application process beginning with a notification on Mar 15. Youth can apply online until April 5. After a review of the applications, the selection process will be completed by May 31, and sanction letters will be distributed on June 2, coinciding with Telangana Formation Day.
Deputy chief minister and finance minister Bhatti Vikramarka emphasised that Rajiv Yuva Vikasam would serve as a platform for young people to achieve self-sufficiency and economic stability.
“The Congress govt is determined to provide opportunities for the youth, ensuring that unemployed individuals have the resources to build their careers,” Bhatti said at a press conference here on Tuesday.
Accusing the previous BRS govt of neglecting youth and job creation over the past decade, the minister said that the initiative would be rolled out in collaboration with several state-run corporations and departments, which will soon release specific guidelines.
“Collectors will be directly involved in overseeing the implementation of this scheme at the grassroots level,” Bhatti added.
The Rajiv Yuva Vikasam scheme is part of the Congress govt’s larger plan to address youth unemployment and provide better opportunities for growth. Bhatti assured that the scheme would reflect the govt’s commitment to the social and economic empowerment of young people, particularly from marginalised communities.
“This initiative will not only offer financial assistance but also enable youth to explore various self-employment avenues that align with their skills and aspirations,” he said.
In addition to the youth empowerment scheme, Bhatti also announced a significant grant for Veeranari Chakali Ilamma Women University in Koti. The govt approved Rs 540 crore for the construction of new academic buildings and the restoration of heritage structures on the campus.
A master plan has been developed to elevate the university to a world-class institution, which includes the renovation of historic buildings and development of modern facilities. The govt earmarked Rs 15.5 crore for restoring the heritage structures, with Rs 100 crore being released immediately for the construction of new amenities. Once the Musi river rejuvenation project is completed, the university’s main entrance will be reopened, improving accessibility and enhancing the overall infrastructure, officials said.