On Tuesday, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu participated in the NTR Bharosa Pension Distribution Programme, a significant initiative aimed at supporting the state's underprivileged communities.
During the event, the Chief Minister visited the homes of beneficiaries to personally hand over the pensions, an act symbolising his commitment to the welfare of the people.
Naidu’s visit took him to Yellamanda village in the Narasaraopet constituency of Palnadu district, where he interacted with local residents and handed over pensions directly to the recipients.
The Chief Minister took this opportunity to highlight the importance of welfare programmes, stating that true welfare means improving the lives of the poor. He also reiterated his vision of a poverty-free society, where every individual has access to basic necessities and support.
In a statement that set him apart from other political leaders, Naidu emphasised that he did not rely on a "high command" for guidance. Instead, he affirmed that his real authority came from the people of Andhra Pradesh.
"My high command is the five crore people of Andhra Pradesh," he declared, underscoring his focus on serving the public over political affiliations.
During his visit to one of the beneficiaries' homes, Naidu demonstrated his grounded nature by preparing coffee himself and sharing it with the family.
He engaged in meaningful conversations, learning about their struggles and everyday challenges, which further strengthened his connection to the people he serves.
Naidu credited the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) for pioneering the pension distribution system in the state, adding that the programme has made significant strides under his leadership.
He pointed out that Andhra Pradesh is the only state in the country providing pensions to 64 lakh people, with each beneficiary receiving Rs. 4,000 per month.
The Chief Minister proudly noted that his government had fulfilled its promise to begin pension payments from April, even delivering them a day earlier on the 31st of each month.
Naidu also emphasised the importance of efficient governance in ensuring that pensions reach beneficiaries without delays or complications.
He warned that strict action would be taken against officials who fail to deliver pensions directly to the homes of recipients, forcing them to visit offices. This firm stance reflects his administration’s commitment to providing services in a timely and effective manner.
Reflecting on the previous administration, Naidu criticised the last five years of governance, accusing the former regime of corruption and mismanagement.
He claimed that the previous government had misappropriated central funds and created a hostile environment for business, discouraging industrialists through corrupt practices.
"We are reviving governance and restoring order to administration," Naidu asserted, stressing that his government was working to undo the damage caused by the previous regime.
In his address, Naidu also discussed several reforms his government had introduced, which include the establishment of 198 Anna Canteens to address hunger, the abolition of garbage taxes, the waiver of GST for handloom workers, and the repeal of G.O. 217, which had adversely affected fishermen.
He also highlighted the creation of a corporation for goldsmiths and the provision of a 10% quota for toddy tappers in liquor stores. His government’s emphasis on rapid road repairs and improvements across the state also formed part of the broader development agenda.
Naidu's commitment to the agricultural sector was evident in his plans to incorporate technology into farming practices, such as the use of drones. He also promised swift payment for paddy purchased from farmers, ensuring payments within 48 hours.
His administration also pledged to take strong measures to curb illegal activities, including drug abuse.
The Chief Minister paid tribute to former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, acknowledging his pivotal role in India’s economic reforms.
Naidu also drew attention to the significant water wastage in the state, particularly the 3,000 TMC of water from the Godavari River that flows into the sea annually, and the 800 TMC from the Krishna River.
He discussed plans to divert 300 TMC of water from Godavari to Banakacharla, a project he believes will bring transformative benefits to the state.
At the same time, Naidu praised the Telugu Desam Party workers for their dedication to public service, highlighting the party's record-breaking membership of 90 lakh.
He expressed his gratitude to the people for providing the TDP with a substantial majority in the assembly elections, emphasising that his government would continue focusing on development and fulfilling the aspirations of every citizen.
After the pension distribution event, Naidu visited the Kodanda Rama temple in Yellamanda village, where he offered special prayers.
So far, the Andhra Pradesh government has spent over Rs. 20,000 crore on pensions, and in cases where a pensioner passes away, their pension is immediately transferred to their spouse under the widow category. In the latest update, 5,402 new widow pensions were sanctioned, and 50,000 beneficiaries who had not received pensions for the past three months were given their accumulated payments in a single instalment.
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