Hyderabad: Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy addressed a women’s conference held in Amberpet, highlighting the significance of Bathukamma, the achievements of Indian women across various fields, women’s empowerment and the need to build a drug-free society.
Kishan Reddy Calls for Grand Bathukamma Celebrations
Kishan Reddy called upon the people of Amberpet to celebrate Bathukamma on Saturday, October 17, at 5 PM in a grand manner.
He said Bathukamma is a festival that brings people together beyond caste and religion and represents the strength and unity of women.
Historical Significance of Bathukamma
Recalling the historical significance of the festival, Kishan Reddy said brave women such as Chakali Ilamma fought against the Nizam’s rule and Razakar oppression, with Bathukamma serving as a symbol during those struggles.
He also recalled the dark period of history when women faced atrocities under the Nizam’s private army.
Women Excelling Across All Fields
Kishan Reddy said Indian women are making remarkable progress in every field.
He highlighted Droupadi Murmu, a tribal woman serving as the President of India, and Nirmala Sitharaman, the daughter-in-law of Telangana and Union Finance Minister, as examples of women holding key positions in the country.
He said women are excelling not only in aviation and flying fighter aircraft but also in the armed forces and by leading major companies.
He also praised Indian women athletes, saying women have made a significant contribution to India’s medal tally at international sporting events and brought pride to the nation.
Centre Supporting Women’s Self-Help Groups
Kishan Reddy said women are also playing an important role in Hyderabad’s growing IT sector.
He stated that the Union Government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi is supporting women’s self-help groups by facilitating bank loans of up to ₹20 lakh, aimed at encouraging women to become financially empowered.
He urged women to provide quality education to their children and encourage them to pursue their goals and aspirations.
Call for a Drug-Free Telangana
Kishan Reddy expressed concern over the increasing exposure of young people and children to ganja and drugs, saying that women and families are facing serious difficulties as a result.
He urged parents and families to keep a close watch on their children and warned against allowing Telangana to face a situation similar to the drug-related problems witnessed in Punjab.
He said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has set a goal of making India drug-free by 2029 under the Nasha Mukt Bharat vision.
As part of this campaign, Kishan Reddy announced that a politically non-partisan padayatra will be organised in Hyderabad in November.
He appealed to women across Telangana to participate in large numbers and make the campaign a success.
