Telangana Deputy Chief Minister Seeks Financial Relief and Resolution of Key Issues from Union Finance Minister
Hyderabad On Saturday, August 24, Telangana’s Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka met with Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in New Delhi to address pressing financial challenges and seek support for the state.
During the meeting, Vikramarka highlighted the severe financial strain faced by Telangana due to substantial borrowings by the previous government. He specifically requested the restructuring of Rs 31,795 crore in high-interest loans acquired through Off-Budget Borrowings (OBB), stressing that the heavy debt burden has impeded the state’s ability to meet its financial obligations.
Vikramarka appealed to Sitharaman for assistance in rescheduling these debts and reducing interest rates to alleviate fiscal pressures. Sitharaman responded positively, promising to facilitate a meeting between state and central officials to address these concerns.
In addition, Vikramarka raised issues regarding the pending release of funds for Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS) and grants due under the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act of 2014. He pointed out a significant error where Rs 495.20 crore allocated to Telangana for 2014-15 was mistakenly given to Andhra Pradesh. Despite previous representations, this allocation discrepancy remains unresolved.
The Deputy Chief Minister also highlighted non-transfer of Rs 455.76 crore from the Andhra Pradesh Building and Other Construction Workers Welfare Board (APBOCWWB) and Rs 9.15 crore from the AP Labour Welfare Fund, which rightfully belong to Telangana. He requested Sitharaman’s intervention to expedite the transfer of these funds along with applicable interest.
Vikramarka further sought the Centre’s help in addressing outstanding power dues between Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, which total Rs 6,756.92 crore, against Telangana’s counterclaims of Rs 24,132 crore. He emphasized the need for a comprehensive resolution of these financial disputes to ensure equitable management between the states.
The Deputy Chief Minister also requested the reimbursement of Rs 703.43 crore incurred by Telangana for constitutional bodies and common institutions serving both states prior to their bifurcation. Additionally, he urged for an increase in the Indian Police Service (IPS) cadre strength in Telangana, based on the state’s territorial needs rather than its population ratio.
Sitharaman assured that the central government would review these requests and take appropriate measures to address the issues raised.
