The Telugu Desam Party cadres and leaders are very happy these days. They have almost switched into silent celebratory mood because of the increasing positive response for the 100 per cent hike in pensions. CM Chandrababu Naidu’s decision on pensions is considered a master stroke that has wiped out whatever little anti-incumbency factor against the TDP government till now. Pensions for old aged and widows is increased from Rs. 1,000 to Rs. 2,000 per month and that of disabled persons from Rs. 1,500 to Rs. 3,000.

Ever since the decision is announced by CM Naidu, there has been a steady positive response from the beneficiaries. The TDP leaders did not expect this kind of overwhelming response from these sections. From time to time, the TDP leaders are interacting with the beneficiaries’ families and in villages for their feedback.

At the same time, the TDP leaders are being cautioned against becoming over confident. It is a clear fact voters are divided along caste and community lines in AP. There are three major caste groups which have respective political parties to fulfill their respective aspirations. Though anti-government factor is nullified because of Naidu’s experience and welfare-development mix, there are still challenges from secret deals between rival parties and caste arithmetic.

G.Ravikiran