A Decadal Overview of Welfare Schemes in Telangana (2014–2024)

This research paper offers a critical appraisal of the welfare policies implemented in Telangana State between 2014 and 2024. In the decade following its formation, Telangana adopted an ambitious welfare-driven governance model, introducing flagship schemes such as Rythu Bandhu, KCR Kits, Kalyana Lakshmi/Shaadi Mubarak, and Aasara pensions. These programs aimed to address socio-economic disparities, particularly among farmers, women, the elderly, and marginalized communities. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study assesses the effectiveness, outreach, and socio-economic impact of these initiatives. Quantitative data on scheme coverage and budgetary allocations are complemented by qualitative insights from policy documents, field reports, and secondary literature. The findings highlight significant improvements in financial inclusion, maternal and child welfare, and rural livelihoods. However, the study also identifies persistent challenges, including administrative inefficiencies, unequal access, and limited focus on long-term self-reliance. The paper argues that while Telangana's welfare policies have contributed to short-term upliftment, sustained socio-economic transformation requires a shift toward integrated development planning, improved governance, and transparent delivery mechanisms. The study concludes with key policy recommendations to strengthen institutional frameworks, ensure equity, and enhance the long-term sustainability of welfare programs. This decadal review aims to inform the broader discourse on welfare governance in India.

Telangana, welfare schemes, public policy, Rythu Bandhu, social development, governance reform.

1. Government of Telangana. (2018). Socio-Economic Outlook 2018. Planning Department, Government of Telangana. https://www.telangana.gov.in/Socio-Economic-Outlook-2018 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

2. Government of Telangana. (2023). Socio-Economic Outlook 2023: Towards a golden Telangana. Planning Department, Government of Telangana. https://www.telangana.gov.in/Socio-Economic-Outlook-2023 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

3. Planning Department, Government of Telangana. (2022). Annual report 2021-22. https://www.telangana.gov.in/Departments/Planning [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

4. National Institution for Transforming India (NITI Aayog). (2020). SDG India Index & Dashboard 2019-20: Partnerships in the decade of action. NITI Aayog, Government of India. https://niti.gov.in/sdg-india-index-dashboard-2019-20 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

5. Food and Agriculture Organization. (2020). FAO recognizes Telangana’s Rythu Bandhu initiative as a model scheme. United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization. https://www.fao.org [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

6. Reddy, A. A., & Bantilan, C. (2019). Welfare schemes and their impacts on agricultural livelihoods: A study from Telangana, India. Journal of Development Policy and Practice, 4(2), 217–236. https://doi.org/10.1177/2455133319843074 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

7. Yadav, M. S., & Kumar, A. (2022). Welfare-centric governance in Telangana: A review of major initiatives and their socio-economic impacts. South Asian Journal of Social Studies, 8(1), 44–59. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

8. Kumar, G. S. (2021). Welfare measures for inclusive growth: A case study of Telangana State. International Journal of Research and Analytical Reviews, 8(3), 450–456. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

9. Telangana State Family Health Bureau. (2020). Impact assessment of KCR Kits on maternal and child health outcomes in Telangana. Hyderabad: Department of Health and Family Welfare, Government of Telangana. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]