‘ An undeterred approach makes us successful’

Telangana Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao reveals his vision to make the state one of the country’s best performers in an interview with Deputy Editor Amarnath K. Menon.

Q. What measures have you taken to make Telangana a vibrant economy? A. On November 6, we became the first state in the country to provide roundthe- clock uninterrupted supply of power free of cost to farmers. This is on an experimental basis for a week now and will come into force from March next as we are sorting out operational issues. This is proof of a resilient economy. It is by making sure that the rupee is rolling all the time, investing wisely, striking a balance between investments in productive and non- productive sectors, while ensuring that the poor are less vulnerable, all of this with stringent fiscal prudence. Settling of debts is also important to ensure credibility. Our power bonds were snapped up fast when auctioned by the RBI. This and reliable power supply have infused confidence in the industry. We are top ranked in ease of doing business.

Q. What have you done to improve environment and cleanliness?

A. Our state is 49 per cent urban; 24 per cent of the land is designated as forests. In reality, it is less. We have begun to increase the green cover through a massive tree planting campaign, Haritha Haram. We have to improve in our efforts to make the state open defecation- free also. We are taking potable bulk water supply to all habitations in the state by year- end. Intra- city and intra- village pipe networks will be ready by 2019.

Q. And your ‘ Bangaru Telangana’ goal? A. It will not happen overnight. We are successful because of our undeterred approach towards achieving goals. It will continue.