Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Sunday, 9 August declared that the state's coalition government is working to guarantee safe drinking water and housing access to every tribal family in the state by 2027. Speaking at a function in Vijayawada to mark the International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples, Naidu reaffirmed the government's commitment to protecting tribal rights and welfare.

Key Announcements for Tribal Communities

Naidu announced that 1.5 lakh tribal youth will receive skill training to improve their employment and livelihood prospects, with special preparation programmes also planned for competitive examinations. He revealed that 19 MoUs signed on the occasion are expected to benefit around 60,000 people, opening additional avenues for development and livelihoods.

The Chief Minister disclosed that the state government has allocated ₹4,764 crore for the comprehensive development of 27.39 lakh tribals across Andhra Pradesh. The funds are being channelled through the Integrated Tribal Development Agencies (ITDAs), with focus areas spanning living standards, infrastructure, employment, and skill development.

Infrastructure and Connectivity Push

To end dependence on traditional 'doli' patient-transport methods in remote tribal areas, the government has deployed feeder ambulances alongside 108 and 104 mobile medical units. Cell towers are also being established to strengthen digital connectivity across tribal regions.

Road connectivity is being extended to 2,336 tribal habitations on a mission-mode basis. Under the 'Adavi Talli Bata' initiative, roads covering 905 km have been laid at a cost of ₹1,000 crore. Three districts have been created specifically to give tribal communities greater administrative priority, according to Naidu.

Employment Rights and the GO No. 3 Question

Naidu acknowledged that GO No. 3 — an earlier government order designed to secure local employment in tribal areas — had been struck down by courts. He said the present government is actively examining alternatives to protect employment opportunities for local tribal youth, though no specific replacement mechanism was announced on the day.

Araku Coffee and Commercial Crop Ambitions

Highlighting a longer arc of development, Naidu noted that the government had laid the foundation for Araku Coffee as a brand 25 years ago, and it has since grown into a global product. Coffee cultivation is now being encouraged across an additional 1 lakh acres, while the agency areas are being positioned as a commercial brand destination for crops including coffee, pepper, and turmeric.

Invoking President Droupadi Murmu's journey from a tribal background to the country's highest constitutional office, Naidu called her story an inspiration to every citizen. With Independence Day approaching, he urged tribal communities and citizens alike to channel personal success into nation-building — describing sincere work for society as the highest form of patriotism.