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States » SouthPosted at: Mar 17 2025 11:53AM


Hostel diet and cosmetic charges hiked for SC, ST, BC, minority students: Seethakka

Hyderabad, Mar 17 (UNI) Telangana Panchayat Raj, Women and Child Welfare Minister Dr Danasari Anasuya Seethakka informed the Assembly that the Congress government has increased the diet and cosmetic charges for hostel students belonging to SCs, STs, BCs, and minority communities by 40 per cent and 212 per cent, respectively.
Replying to questions raised by members of the House during Question Hour, Seethakka stated that diet charges were increased by 40 per cent in the Indiramma (Congress) government after seven years. After 16 years, cosmetic charges were increased by 212 per cent.
"I also studied in the ST Girls Hostel in Mulugu," Seethakka said. "Even though opportunities were few at that time, many people studied diligently and reached high positions."
She emphasised that many poor students from SC, ST, BC, and minority communities rely on hostels.
"Without proper and nutritious food, if students feel full during their study time, they may fall asleep, making it difficult to focus on studies. That's why we are significantly increasing diet charges to provide good nutrition for children," she explained.
"The future of these children is in our hands, so we prioritise education. Students are the future human capital of the country. We are taking full responsibility to increase their knowledge and improve their lives," she said.
The minister also mentioned that strict action is being taken if food is found to be adulterated. "We are ensuring our IAS officers stay overnight in hostels, and ministers and MLAs are also spending time in hostels to ensure quality education and nutrition are provided," she added.
Seethakka revealed that over Rs 499 crore had been spent in four months on improving hostel facilities.
She criticised the central government for cancelling scholarships for schoolchildren despite promoting initiatives like 'Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat' and introducing a new education policy.
"The central government's approach towards education is like a drop in the bucket. The Centre should increase funds to strengthen government education," she stated.
"Only poor and middle-class families are dependent on the government. Since they rely on the state government, the Centre must also cooperate with the state government," Seethakka urged.
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Tags: #Hostel diet and cosmetic charges hiked for SC# ST# BC# minority students: Seethakka
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