MP Etela Rajender’s Speech in Parliament

Speaking in Parliament, Malkajgiri MP Etela Rajender addressed key issues and policies.

Opening Remarks:
Speaker, while introducing Etela Rajender, mentioned that the budget session is an opportunity to hear some insightful perspectives.

Etela Rajender’s Speech:
“I extend my gratitude for the opportunity to speak in this House. I have been closely observing parliamentary proceedings for the past eight months. After listening to the former Finance Minister and Congress members, one thing comes to mind—Congress ruled this country for over 50 years. They frequently invoke the Constitution, but they must remember an essential principle stated by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar: ‘Wealth should be distributed equally among all citizens’ (Development with Equal Distribution). Congress should introspect on what it has done over the past 50 years.

Not just at the national level, but even in states where Congress ruled, budget allocations were never done district-wise. Similarly, the Union Budget does not allocate funds state-wise; instead, schemes are introduced for farmers and youth across the country. However, it is unfortunate that Congress, which ruled for decades, now speaks like a newly elected opposition party.

On June 2, 2014, I became a minister, and in the same month, under the leadership of Narendra Modi, the central government was formed. During the NITI Aayog meeting with all Chief Ministers, PM Modi emphasized that ‘the development of states is directly linked to the development of the nation.’ Therefore, he increased financial allocations to states, allowing them to allocate funds based on their needs and priorities. Before 2014, states received 32% of tax devolution; after Modi’s government came in, it was increased to 42%, bringing a revolutionary change.

The central government does not allocate funds arbitrarily. Funds are disbursed through tax devolution, centrally sponsored schemes (CSS), disaster relief, and Finance Commission grants. However, this budget includes a ₹1.5 lakh crore zero-interest loan for various developmental projects across states, which is a groundbreaking decision.

Telangana’s Financial Crisis and Central Assistance

The Telangana state government struggles even to pay salaries to municipal and panchayat employees. However, the funds for drainage systems, tree plantations, streetlights, roads, crematoriums, and sanitation workers in villages come from the central government. This fact should not be forgotten.

Before 2014, railway station modernization received only ₹2-3 crore in allocations. After Modi’s government took charge, ₹2,000 crore has been allocated for railway station upgrades in Hyderabad alone. I urge opposition members to visit Charlapalli, Secunderabad, Kacheguda, and Nampally to witness the massive developmental works underway.

The Charlapalli Railway Station is being developed with ₹450 crore, but the state government lacks ₹50-100 crore for basic infrastructure. I have requested Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw to allocate ₹100 crore to ensure this project is not wasted.

Massive investments are being made to upgrade railway lines in Telangana:

• Single lines are being converted into double lines
• Double lines are being upgraded to triple lines
• The Kazipet to Balharshah trunk line to Delhi is being expanded to four tracks with an investment of thousands of crores.

Under schemes like Smart Cities and AMRUT, thousands of crores are being spent on urban development, all funded by the central government.

Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare

While revenue from services and income tax sectors is high, agriculture does not generate as much income. However, 50% of India’s population depends on agriculture. Recognizing this, Modi’s government introduced PM Kisan Samman Nidhi, providing ₹11,000 crore to farmers, with each receiving ₹10,000 annually. Has any previous government implemented such a scheme? Congress never even considered it.

We are in the era of genomics. To ensure scientific advancements benefit farmers, the government is working to introduce genetically improved seeds.

A leading international journal recently stated:
“India has the strength to feed any famine-struck country in the world, but no country can feed India if it faces a food crisis.”
This is a testament to India’s agricultural strength under Modi’s leadership.

For the first time, a separate Ministry of Fisheries has been established.
Under the Sheep Rearing Scheme, the central government provides ₹50 lakh subsidy for investments up to ₹1 crore. Despite this, Telangana has failed to convene a coordination committee meeting or disburse funds to beneficiaries since 2021.

Addressing Unemployment

Indian students go abroad for education, working at petrol stations and supermarkets to support their studies. The recent policy changes in the U.S. regarding job opportunities affect us all.

To address unemployment, the previous budget allocated ₹4 lakh crore for the next five years.
However, schemes like Vishwakarma Yojana and others are not being implemented properly by state governments, causing difficulties. I request the Finance Minister to review which states are failing to implement these schemes.

The world has become a global village. Whether moving to Germany, Europe, or the U.S., people need visas and passports. The government should monitor job placements, salaries, and worker conditions in foreign companies to protect Indians working abroad from exploitation or imprisonment.

National Highways and Land Compensation

National highways are being developed, but there is an issue with land acquisition compensation.
While the market value of land is ₹1 crore per acre, the registered value remains at ₹2 lakh.
I urge the government to ensure compensation is based on market rates so that farmers receive a fair price.

Conclusion

(As Etela Rajender made his points, the Speaker commended his speech, and members expressed their support by thumping desks.)