In a massive exercise to ascertain the socio-economic conditions of people in Telangana, government of Telangana is conducting the Intensive Household Survey on August 19. On the basis of this survey white ration cards would be distributed in future and people can avail Arogyasri Health Scheme and fee reimbursement scheme. The comprehensive data from the survey would help the government in drafting its policies and schemes and to ensure that the benefits reach the targeted sections.
Bona fide residents of a certain household who are studying or working elsewhere in the country or abroad need not be physically present on the day of the survey but their identity would be corroborated through the ration card or other documents.
Allaying the fears among public Raymond Peter, Telangana Principal secretary said that Bank account numbers are required only for those who wish to claim benefits of the government welfare schemes and other benefits such as pensions, scholarships, fee reimbursement etc. In such cases, the subsidy will be credited directly into their banks accounts. For people above the BPL, it would be useful if in future direct benefit transfer scheme, for LPG and other things comes into force.
He clarified that the survey is to assess the social and economic status of people. The government has decided to consider only this database as the criterion for all the future schemes and programmes. Not only the poorer sections, even other categories would find it beneficial when they need certificates such as income, caste, marriage, residence certificates etc. It would also be useful as an address proof. People are free to take that decision. If they refuse to give details, it will recorded as ‘refused to give details’. However, in future, if they come to the government seeking any certificate, they will not be issued one since it will not be in the database. The survey is not for only poorer sections. We plan to issue household cards to everyone, which will serve as proof of address and identity. For issuing caste, income, residence certificates, this data will be useful. Also if there are any property disputes, this data may prove useful.
Muslims need to take part in the survey to avail government schemes as Muslims are the most deserving community.
Muhammad Riyaz Ahmed