KCR Pays Rich Tribute To Phule

Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao today paid rich tributes to social activist, thinker and anti-caste social reformer Jyotirao Govindrao Phule on the eve of the latter's 195th birth anniversary.

In a statement, the CM recalled Phule's service to the nation, and hailed him for his "outstanding work" towards eradicating caste discrimination in Indian society as well as towards the uplift of Dalits, Bahujans and women.

He said that the Telangana state government, inspired by Phule's philosophy that socio-economic prosperity could be achieved only through education and equality for all, had been implementing programs that would help the state become an equal and inclusive space.

"In the past six-and-a-half years, the Telangana government has been implementing several programs and schemes for the welfare of the weaker sections of society. We have also been working to strengthen traditional livelihoods once again so that the people of our state can enjoy economic security and can realise their aspirations," KCR said.

Reiterating his government's commitment to the reformer's ideas, he added, "Our government spends Rs 45,000 crore annually for the uplift of the SC, ST, BC and minority communities in Telangana. Our work in the area has garnered much praise at both the national and international levels. Our attempts to broaden access to education have seen much success, and demonstrate our commitment to turning Mahatma Phule's ideas into actions - schemes like the Mahatma Phule Videsh Vidya Nidhi help underprivileged students pursue high-quality education at various institutions of international repute. Further, we have prioritised the development and protection of women, and have focused on improving their access to health facilities and education. Our work to curb child marriage has seen considerable success as well. The construction of Atma Gourava Bhavans in Hyderabad has also been welcomed by members of the BC community."

Various other leaders including ministers Gangula Kamalakar and Koppula Eshwar paid their respects to Phule on the occasion as well.