The Telangana government has announced a series of welfare measures aimed at supporting citizens from Telangana working in the Gulf countries. These measures reflect the state’s commitment to ensuring the well-being of its people abroad, addressing both their immediate needs and the needs of their families.
Ex-Gratia for Families of Deceased Gulf Workers
To provide financial support to the families of Gulf workers, the government has introduced an ex-gratia payment of Rs. 5 lakhs. This assistance will be extended to the legal heirs or family members of those workers who have tragically passed away in the Gulf countries, regardless of the cause of death. The ex-gratia benefit is applicable to deaths that occurred on or after December 7, 2023. This measure is designed to alleviate the financial burden on grieving families, offering them some relief in difficult times.
Formation of Gulf Workers Welfare Advisory Committee
A key step in improving the conditions of Telangana workers in the Gulf is the formation of a dedicated Gulf Workers Welfare Advisory Committee. The primary objective of this committee is to thoroughly examine the challenges faced by Gulf workers, including issues related to migration, working conditions, and the overall welfare of workers. The committee’s findings will provide valuable insights for the government to create more targeted policies that address the concerns of this workforce.
Introduction of “Pravasi Prajavani” for Grievance Redressal
To ensure that the families of Gulf workers have an effective platform to voice their concerns, the Telangana government has launched a special grievance redressal initiative called “Pravasi Prajavani.” This program will be part of the ongoing Prajavani initiative at Pragathi Bhavan, Hyderabad. It will serve as a dedicated grievance counter where families can submit their issues and receive prompt assistance. This initiative will help bridge the gap between the government and the families of Gulf workers, ensuring their concerns are addressed in a timely manner.
Priority Admissions in Government Residential Schools for Children of Gulf Workers
Recognizing the challenges faced by the families of Gulf workers, particularly regarding the education of their children, the government has decided to provide priority admission to the children of Gulf workers in government residential schools. This initiative aims to ensure that the children of these workers receive quality education and are given equal opportunities to succeed. By prioritizing their admission, the government seeks to alleviate some of the hardships faced by families due to the prolonged absence of the primary breadwinner.
Implementation and Monitoring of Welfare Initiatives
The General Administration Department, along with the Planning Department and other relevant departments responsible for the implementation of government residential schools, will take immediate action to ensure that these welfare measures are put into effect without delay. The government aims to implement these initiatives in a time-bound manner, ensuring that the benefits reach the intended recipients as soon as possible. The ongoing collaboration between various departments will be key to the success of these measures.
A Holistic Approach to Supporting Gulf Workers and Their Families
These initiatives mark a significant step by the Telangana government in addressing the unique challenges faced by its citizens working in the Gulf. The ex-gratia payment, the formation of the advisory committee, the introduction of “Pravasi Prajavani,” and the priority admissions in schools all point to a holistic approach aimed at supporting both Gulf workers and their families. By acknowledging the sacrifices made by these workers and taking proactive steps to mitigate their challenges, the government is reinforcing its commitment to the welfare of its people abroad.
Conclusion
The Telangana government’s welfare measures for Gulf workers are a testament to its dedication to the welfare of its people, regardless of where they work. By providing financial support to families, addressing grievances, and ensuring access to quality education for children, the government has laid the foundation for a more comprehensive support system for Gulf workers. These initiatives not only provide immediate relief but also pave the way for future policy developments that will continue to safeguard the interests of Telangana’s overseas workforce.
