One lakh SOPs to BCs evokes good response in Telangana

 HYDERABAD: The state government's newly-launched one lakh financial assistance scheme for the Backward Classes (BCs) engaged in caste-based occupations has evoked good response from applicants. The online applications touched 53,000 within five days of the state government launching the portal.

MLAs will distribute cheques to beneficiaries in their respective constituencies on the 15th of every month.

The deadline to submit applications is June 20 and the government expects lakhs of applications.

Selection committees, headed by district collectors, have been constituted all over the state. The final selection list will be released with the approval of the district in-charge ministers.

The new scheme was launched on June 9 as part of the decennial celebrations of the state formation day. The state government has launched an exclusive portal for online submission of applications.

Minister for BCs Gangula Kamalakar on Monday reviewed the status of the online applications with officials at the Secretariat. He said that the
application process was made online to ensure transparency and curtail irregularities.

"There is no need for applicants to approach brokers or officials or bribe anyone. They can submit applications online. Selection will be based on merit. Applications will be accepted until June 20."

The selected beneficiaries will each get one lakh in financial assistance, which they can use to purchase tools and raw materials required to go about their occupations.

“The government will disburse the total amount as a grant. There will be no bank linkage and there is no need for repayment”, Kamalakar said adding that this will be a continuous process.

The minister also launched a portal to facilitate BC students to apply for admissions in 703 BC pre-matric and post-matric hostels in the state. The entire admission process has been made online for the first time.