Hyderabad, Nov 1 (UNI) In a Diwali gift to government hostel students across Telangana, the state government has raised diet and cosmetic charges in all government-run hostels, including SC, ST, BC, minority, and Telangana Gurukula Vidya Institutions Society (TREIS) hostels.
Telangana Panchayat Raj and Tribal Development Minister Dr Dhanasari Anasuya Seethakka issued a statement on Friday, applauding the Chief Minister for understanding the needs of students and raising the diet and cosmetic allowances by an unprecedented 40 per cent.
“The Chief Minister has taken this step with students’ futures in mind,” said Dr Seethakka, emphasizing that diet charges have not seen such a significant increase in the last 16 years.
Previously, under the BRS government, diet charges were raised only marginally. Dr Seethakka criticized the previous administration, claiming it neglected infrastructure in government hostels, leaving students with inadequate facilities.
“The new government is committed to providing students with essential infrastructure, and 7.65 lakh students will now benefit from this increase,” she said, expressing gratitude for aligning the charges with the rising cost of living.
Dr Sitakka also announced that the diet and cosmetic charges will be distributed via a green channel, ensuring quick and uninterrupted access to funds.
She emphasized that this increase will alleviate financial burdens on students and their families, calling the measure a “true Diwali gift” for students across Telangana.
Education Principal Secretary Burra Venkatesham, along with secretaries from various welfare departments, expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Revanth Reddy for the increase, stating that it would significantly benefit students.
They lauded the CM’s directive to adjust the diet to ensure improved nutrition for students, with the new diet plans set to be implemented within ten days.
The increased charges will benefit approximately 7.65 lakh students across the state.
