Vijayawada: Minister for Social Welfare, Differently Abled and Senior Citizens Welfare, Dr Dola Sri Bala Veeranjaneya Swamy, described Dr BR Ambedkar as a humanitarian and a great social reformer.
He said that the state government is moving forward on the path shown by Ambedkar, striving for inclusive development and social justice. The Social Welfare Department organised Ambedkar's 135th birth anniversary at the Tummalapalli Kshetrayya Kalakshetram in Vijayawada on Tuesday. On the occasion, he paid floral tributes to Dr Ambedkar's statue.
Addressing the gathering, he said Ambedkar overcame social discrimination and emerged as a great visionary who gave India a strong Constitution. "Today, the freedom, equality and rights enjoyed by citizens are a result of the Constitution framed by Dr Ambedkar," he said, adding that the State government is committed to ensuring equal opportunities for all sections of society in line with his ideals.
The minister highlighted that the government is focusing on providing quality education without compromise. He said efforts are being made to improve facilities in around 1,054 hostels and 190 residential schools (Gurukulams) across the State, with continuous monitoring by the chief minister.
New buildings and infrastructure are also being developed. He further said that while nearly 60 students from these institutions secured IIT and NEET seats last year, the government is now aiming to help over 200 students achieve similar success through enhanced training. In addition, UPSC Civil Services coaching is being provided through three centres across the State, he said.
Social Welfare Department Secretary MM Naik said the government is implementing planned measures for the overall development of Scheduled Castes in line with the Chief Minister's vision. He added that adequate budget allocations have been made for the upliftment of SC, ST and BC communities, with Rs 143 crore sanctioned for improving infrastructure in hostels and residential schools. NTR district collector Dr G Lakshmisha urged the youth to draw inspiration from Ambedkar's life and set clear goals, working persistently to achieve them.
Several dignitaries, including Mala Corporation Chairman Dr Pedapudi Vijay Kumar, Madiga Corporation Chairperson Dr Undavalli Sridevi, Social Welfare Board Chairman Pothula Balakotayya, Social Welfare Department Director B Lavanyaveni, SC Commission Secretary S Chinna Ramaudu, NTR District Social Welfare Officer KL Harshita, and others participated in the programme.