Did Andhra Pradesh Really Spend Over Rs 48,000 Crores on Social Security Pensions in 16 Months?
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Synopsis
Discover how Andhra Pradesh has allocated an astounding Rs. 48,019 crore for social security pensions over 16 months, prioritizing women's welfare and infrastructure development. Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu highlights key initiatives that aim to uplift the state and its citizens, ensuring a brighter future for all.
Key Takeaways
- Rs. 48,019 crore spent on social security pensions.
- 59% of pensioners are women.
- Free solar rooftops for farmers and SC/ST households.
- 10 crore women benefited from the Stree Shakti scheme.
- Commitment to housing for all by 2029.
Visakhapatnam, Oct 1 (NationPress) The government of Andhra Pradesh has allocated a staggering Rs. 48,019 crore for social security pensions over the past 16 months, as announced by Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Wednesday.
During the NTR Bharosa pension distribution event at Datti village in the Gajapatinagaram constituency of Vizianagaram district, he highlighted that Andhra Pradesh is providing the largest pension amounts in the nation, with a notable 59 percent of the beneficiaries being women.
The Chief Minister personally visited the home of Ponturu Appalaraju, who is battling a kidney condition, to hand over the pension.
He reassured the public that the NDA government has no plans to raise power tariffs and aims to lower them if feasible.
Naidu asserted that the power sector has been restored to stability through effective management, contrasting this with the previous administration, which he claimed had imposed a burden of Rs. 32,000 crore on consumers by increasing tariffs nine times.
“For the first time in India's history, starting November 13, power charges will decrease by 13 paise per unit,” he stated.
Additionally, he mentioned that the NDA government is offering free solar rooftops to farmers under the PM Kusum scheme, alongside provisions for SC and ST households.
Emphasizing the government's dedication to women's welfare and empowerment, the Chief Minister noted that these areas are receiving top priority.
Under the Talliki Vandanam scheme, Rs. 10,090 crore has been credited to mothers sending their children to school, with Rs. 1,718 crore spent on distributing gas cylinders at no cost.
The Stree Shakti scheme has also been initiated to facilitate free travel for women on RTC buses, with an annual budget of Rs. 2,963 crore.
Notably, 10 crore women availed of this free travel within just 45 days.
The Chief Minister reiterated the promise of providing housing for all by 2029, indicating that construction on 3 lakh homes has already been completed, with an additional 6 lakh expected by June next year.
Moreover, health insurance coverage has been expanded to encompass all state residents, with treatment costs up to Rs. 25 lakh covered for the impoverished.
Discussing GST reforms, he pointed out that GST 2.0 will benefit Andhra Pradesh by Rs. 8,000 crore, potentially saving each family up to Rs. 1,500 monthly due to lower prices on essential goods.
Reaffirming his commitment to the development of the North Andhra region, the Chief Minister pledged personal accountability for its progress. As part of this initiative, the Bhogapuram airport is scheduled for completion by August 2026.
Furthermore, irrigation projects valued at Rs. 2,000 crore will be finalized within two years, including the Sarvagadda mini reservoir at a cost of Rs. 25 crore.
The Chief Minister announced that numerous major IT firms, such as Google, TCS, and Cognizant, are establishing offices in Visakhapatnam, and plans for a tribal university near the Central University are underway.
Additionally, the ArcelorMittal steel plant is in the process of being set up, while the Visakha-Raipur Greenfield Highway will enhance connectivity across the nation.
Point of View
The government's commitment to social security and empowerment initiatives, particularly for women, is commendable. The financial allocations reflect a strategic approach to uplift marginalized communities while addressing critical infrastructure challenges. The emphasis on reducing power tariffs and enhancing connectivity through major projects indicates a balanced focus on welfare and development.
NationPress
01/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
How much has Andhra Pradesh spent on social security pensions?
Andhra Pradesh has spent Rs. 48,019 crore on social security pensions over the last 16 months.
What percentage of pensioners in Andhra Pradesh are women?
In Andhra Pradesh, 59 percent of pensioners are women.
What is the Talliki Vandanam scheme?
The Talliki Vandanam scheme provides financial support to mothers sending their children to school, with Rs. 10,090 crore deposited into their accounts.
What initiatives are being taken for women's empowerment in Andhra Pradesh?
The government has launched the Stree Shakti scheme for free travel for women and is prioritizing women's welfare in various initiatives.
What are the future housing plans for Andhra Pradesh?
The government aims to provide housing for all by 2029, with 3 lakh houses already completed and another 6 lakh expected by June next year.
