Minister Ponnam Prabhakar’s Journey and Contributions to BC Welfare and Transport
Ponnam Prabhakar, the Transport and BC Welfare Minister from Karimnagar, has risen through the ranks despite having no political background. Starting as a leader in the National Students’ Union of India (NSUI), he steadily climbed the political ladder, eventually securing a position in Chief Minister Revanth Reddy’s cabinet. A disciple of former CM Rajasekhar Reddy, Prabhakar has earned recognition for his impactful work in the portfolios he has held.
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Revolutionary Initiatives in Transport and Environment Protection
Since taking charge of the Transport and BC Welfare Departments, Minister Prabhakar has implemented several transformative measures. He introduced electric buses and exempted electric vehicles from taxes to promote environmental sustainability. These steps reflect his forward-thinking approach to modernizing the transport sector.
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Focus on BC Welfare and Education
In the BC Welfare Department, Prabhakar has displayed a clear vision for the upliftment of backward classes. He actively engages with students to understand their problems and works to resolve them. Special attention has been given to improving Gurukul schools, with necessary funds being allocated after discussions with CM Revanth Reddy. The department has also taken steps to address teacher concerns and ensure a conducive learning environment.
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Increased Budget and Welfare Programs
The budget for BC welfare in 2024-25 saw a significant increase, with Rs 9,200.32 crore allocated—Rs 2,971.32 crore more than the previous year. Initiatives like the distribution of Katamyya safety kits to toddy workers have been successfully rolled out, benefiting 10,000 individuals in the first phase. Plans are underway to train and equip an additional 10,000 workers in the second phase.
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Formation of Commissions and Skill Development Initiatives
Prabhakar has taken steps to set up a commission for backward classes, appointing Niranjan as chairman and other key members to ensure proper representation. Retired IAS officer Bhusani Venkateswar Rao has also been brought on board to oversee reservation policies for BCs in local bodies. Additionally, hostel students in Ranga Reddy, Hyderabad, and Medchal districts have been trained in skill development through a partnership with IT company Cognizant.
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Infrastructure Development for BC Hostels
The state government has allocated Rs 100 crore for the construction of 20 new concrete buildings for BC hostels. Free electricity is being provided to these hostels to support students. A study on Tamil Nadu’s welfare schemes, including financial assistance and gold coins under the Kalyana Lakshmi Scheme, has been submitted for implementation in Telangana.
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Formation of Cooperative Societies and Welfare Boards
Under Prabhakar’s leadership, several cooperative societies have been established, including those for Mudiraj, Yadava, Kurma, Munnuru Kapu, Padmasali, and other economically backward communities. A special welfare board has also been set up to address the needs of these groups. The BC Corporation has allocated Rs 73 crore under the Praja Palana initiative, demonstrating its commitment to the comprehensive development of backward classes.
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Support for Economic Development and Education
The government has allocated Rs 400 crore for BC welfare in the 2024-25 financial year, with Rs 50 crore earmarked for BC corporations and federations. Initiatives like free electricity for Rajaka and Nayi Brahmins are helping boost their economic development. Additionally, eight new Centers of Excellence (COEs) have been established across the state.
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Young India Integrated Residential Schools
In a major step toward improving education, foundation stones were laid for 28 schools under the first phase of the Young India Integrated Residential Schools project. This initiative aims to provide quality education and opportunities for students from backward classes.
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Minister Ponnam Prabhakar’s efforts have earned widespread appreciation, as he continues to implement policies and programs aimed at the welfare and development of backward communities in Telangana.
