Hyderabad: Residents' Welfare Associations Step Up to Promote Participation in Government Survey
In Hyderabad, many families are not paying attention to the government’s Socio-Economic, Educational, Employment, Political, and Caste Survey (SEEEPC). To address this, the city’s Residents’ Welfare Associations (RWAs) are working hard to raise awareness. They are educating people about the importance of the survey and encouraging everyone to take part.
The survey, which includes 75 questions about personal details, income, assets, and other important information, has seen low participation. This has raised concerns, with some residents even sharing their frustrations in viral social media videos. These videos highlight worries about the consequences of not participating in the survey.
RWAs stress that the survey is important for understanding the needs of the community. It also helps encourage residents to take part in community development. “We are making sure every resident knows they have a voice and should be counted,” said RWA representatives.
The Jubilee Hills Colonies Forum, covering over 150 colonies, is one of the groups taking action. They held an awareness camp in Surya Nagar colony, Shaikpet, to explain the survey’s benefits. “We are helping residents understand the survey’s importance and how it can benefit minorities, especially Muslims,” said Mohammed Asif Hussain Sohail, a forum member.
Speakers at the camp included legal experts and social activists. They discussed how accurate data from the survey could lead to better community services, such as improved infrastructure, healthcare, and education. “The survey can really help uplift the community if done properly,” said speaker SQ Masood.
Despite the awareness efforts, some families are still unsure about the survey. Syed Khaled Shah Chishti Hussaini, Secretary of the United Federation of Residents Welfare Association in Hyderabad, mentioned that while some families support the survey, others are concerned about the 75 questions and prefer a focus on skills assessment in the state. RWAs are working to address these concerns by providing guidance on how to fill out the survey.
Another issue raised by families is the use of pencils by enumerators when recording information. Residents have asked that their final signatures be made with a pen, to ensure the data is not changed later. RWAs are advising families not to let enumerators use pencils in the questionnaire.
Overall, the RWAs are playing a key role in making sure the community understands the importance of the SEEEPC survey and participates fully.
