Hyderabad: The Telangana cabinet has taken a major decision regarding local body elections by approving the removal of the two-child eligibility criterion for candidates. The cabinet meeting was held on Thursday at the Secretariat under the chairmanship of Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao. Minister Ponguleti Srinivas Reddy briefed the media on the decisions, highlighting that the cabinet also approved land allotments across multiple sectors and announced bonuses for farmers along with the support price for crops.
The cabinet has approved the establishment of three new agricultural colleges in the state. In addition, 50% of seats at NALSAR University will be reserved for local students, and an extra seven acres will be allocated to the university. The government also decided to procure the entire paddy yield from farmers, assuring that purchases will be made even if the central government does not intervene. Minister Reddy added that celebratory events will be held to mark two years of governance, with a cabinet sub-committee formed to oversee the preparations.
Infrastructure development also received cabinet approval, with 5,566 km of R&B roads set to be developed under the home model with an allocation of ₹10,547 crore. The cabinet sanctioned ₹438 crore for land acquisition for the Krishna–Vikarabad railway line. Land was allotted for the Ankour Market Yard in Julurupadu, Bhadradri district, and 435.08 acres will be provided as compensation for defense land used for elevated corridors. Farmers will additionally receive a ₹500 bonus along with the support price.
The cabinet also discussed the Hyderabad Metro project extensively. A committee chaired by the Chief Secretary has been formed to closely examine the second phase of the metro, ensuring thorough planning and implementation. These decisions reflect the government’s focus on electoral reforms, agricultural development, and infrastructure expansion, signaling a proactive approach toward governance and public welfare.