Telangana, India’s youngest state, continues to emerge as a dynamic and transformative region. In 2024, the state witnessed remarkable achievements, contentious controversies, significant political shifts, and looming challenges, highlighting its rapid yet complex evolution.
Telangana’s 2024 success story centers on robust economic growth and innovative welfare initiatives. The state retained its leadership in agriculture and IT sectors through proactive policies like Mission Kakatiya and Mission Bhagiratha, which improved irrigation and drinking water access in rural areas. Hyderabad solidified its position as a global tech hub, attracting multinational investments and fostering a thriving startup ecosystem.
Healthcare programs such as the KCR Kit, continued under the Congress-led government of Revanth Reddy, improved maternal and child health outcomes. Similarly, the previous Dalit Bandhu scheme introduced by the BRS government gained renewed focus, showcasing a commitment to empowering marginalized communities through direct financial aid. In renewable energy, Telangana excelled in solar and wind power adoption, cementing its reputation as a leader in sustainable development.
Despite its successes, controversies persisted. The Dharani Portal, designed to streamline land records by the previous BRS government, faced criticism over technical glitches and allegations of favoritism. Several bureaucrats, including former Chief Secretary Somesh Kumar, came under scrutiny for alleged irregularities.
Protests over delays in government job recruitment and neglect of state universities continued to challenge the Congress government. Farmers expressed frustration over late payments under Rythu Bandhu and rising input costs. Allegations of mismanagement within the Waqf Board, including illegal property takeovers, sparked widespread debate and calls for stricter oversight.
Telangana’s political scene remained turbulent. The Congress government faced mounting opposition from the BRS and BJP, who sought to capitalize on public dissatisfaction with unemployment and governance issues. The Lok Sabha elections revealed a fragmented political landscape, with shifting alliances and defections reshaping power dynamics.
Fiery rhetoric among leaders further polarized the electorate. Regional movements demanding better representation for backward districts added complexity to the state’s political environment.
As Telangana moves forward, several challenges remain. Unemployment and skill development for its growing youth population require urgent attention, with promising steps like the proposed Skill University offering hope. While the IT sector thrives, rural areas continue to struggle with industrialization and employment opportunities, deepening the urban-rural divide.
Water-sharing disputes with Andhra Pradesh, particularly over Krishna River management, remain unresolved. Environmental concerns from urbanization and mining also demand immediate action to preserve the state’s ecological balance.
Telangana in 2024 stands at a crossroads. Its successes highlight its immense potential, while its controversies and challenges call for introspection and decisive action. The state’s ability to address these pressing issues while sustaining growth will shape its future legacy.