Telangana, the 29th state of India, came into existence on June 2, 2014, marking a historic milestone in Indian political history. This formation was the result of decades-long demands, struggles, and negotiations for a separate state, owing to distinct socio-cultural, economic, and political identities. Telanganas journey is a testimony to people's aspirations for self-governance and development.
Historical Background
Integration into Andhra Pradesh
After Indias independence, the princely state of Hyderabad, ruled by the Nizams, was integrated into the Indian Union in 1948. Telangana was part of the Hyderabad State until 1956 when it was merged with the Andhra region (formerly part of the Madras Presidency) to form the state of Andhra Pradesh under the States Reorganization Act.
The Gentlemen's Agreement, 1956
To address Telangana's concerns about political and economic neglect, the Gentlemen's Agreement was signed. It assured safeguards for Telangana in education, employment, and budget allocation. However, these promises were rarely fulfilled, leading to growing discontent among the people.
Initial Demands for a Separate State
In 1969, the Telangana Movement gained momentum under leaders like M. Chenna Reddy.
Students and activists demanded separation, citing economic disparities, lack of employment opportunities, and neglect in resource allocation.
The movement witnessed widespread protests and police action, resulting in the loss of several lives.
Renewed Struggle for Telangana
Political Advocacy and Formation of TRS
In 2001, K. Chandrashekar Rao (KCR), a former member of the Telugu Desam Party (TDP), founded the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS). This party became the vanguard of the renewed Telangana movement. TRS consistently pushed for statehood, rallying support through mass mobilizations and parliamentary debates.
Key Milestones in the Struggle
2004: The Congress Party included Telangana statehood in its manifesto to win alliances with TRS. Despite electoral victory, progress on Telangana remained slow.
2009: KCRs hunger strike, coupled with widespread protests, created immense pressure on the Union government.
December 2009: The UPA government, led by the Congress, announced the initiation of the Telangana state formation process. However, the announcement led to counter-protests in Andhra, delaying the process.
Formation of Telangana State
Political and Legislative Developments
In 2013, the Union Cabinet approved the creation of Telangana, carving it out of Andhra Pradesh.
The Andhra Pradesh Reorganization Act, 2014, passed in Parliament, laid the legal foundation for bifurcation.
Hyderabad was declared the joint capital of both states for 10 years, with plans for Andhra Pradesh to develop a new capital.
Official Formation
On June 2, 2014, Telangana officially became Indias 29th state.
K. Chandrashekar Rao was sworn in as the first Chief Minister.
Challenges Post-Bifurcation
Division of resources such as water, electricity, and finances.
Addressing infrastructural needs in the newly formed state.
Political disagreements over Hyderabads governance.
Telanganas Political Journey Post-2014
TRS Dominance
TRS emerged as the dominant political force in Telangana, led by KCR. The party focused on fulfilling promises of development and empowerment.
Welfare schemes like Rythu Bandhu (farmer investment support) and Mission Bhagiratha (safe drinking water) garnered public support.
TRS successfully won the 2018 Assembly elections, cementing its stronghold in the state.
Opposition Politics
The Congress and BJP have tried to make inroads, but their impact has been limited.
The BJP, however, is gradually gaining ground, particularly after the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.
Focus Areas of Governance
Agriculture and Rural Development: Initiatives like free power for farmers and irrigation projects like Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project.
Urban Development: Transforming Hyderabad into a global IT hub.
Social Welfare: Schemes for Dalits, backward classes, and women.
Regional Issues and Movements
The demand for a separate Rayalaseema state and issues related to bifurcation agreements occasionally stir political debates.
Major Achievements of Telangana State
Economic Growth
Telangana is among the fastest-growing states in India, with a GSDP growth rate of 11-13% annually since 2014. Key sectors include IT, pharmaceuticals, and agriculture.
Infrastructure Development
Expansion of Hyderabad Metro.
Development of IT corridors and SEZs.
Progress in rural electrification and road connectivity.
Empowerment and Welfare
Telanganas welfare schemes have significantly reduced poverty levels.
Programs like KCR Kit and Arogya Lakshmi focus on maternal and child health.
Challenges Ahead
Water Sharing Conflicts
Telangana continues to face disputes with Andhra Pradesh over water sharing from rivers like Krishna and Godavari.
Political Competition
The BJPs rising influence could challenge TRSs dominance in the 2024 elections.
Opposition unity remains fragmented, impacting effective governance scrutiny.
Social Issues
Addressing backwardness in tribal areas and providing quality education.
Managing urbanization pressures in Hyderabad.
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