Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has taken significant steps to prioritize the welfare of Backward Classes (BCs) in the state. During a review meeting of the BC Welfare Department, Chandrababu announced the reinstatement of 34% reservation for BCs in local bodies, fulfilling a key election promise. He also directed officials to expedite pending welfare measures and ensure transparency in implementing BC-centric schemes.
Chandrababu emphasized the need to address the grievances of BC communities and ensure their development. He instructed officials to fast-track investigations into crimes against BCs and ensure strict punishment for the accused. The Chief Minister also highlighted the importance of completing ongoing construction projects, including 42 Kapu community halls and 13 KAPU Bhavans, which were initiated during the previous TDP regime but stalled by the subsequent government. Funds have now been released to complete these projects.
The Chief Minister directed officials to clear pending bills related to BC students’ welfare, including Rs. 4.35 crore for honorarium payments to tutors in 485 hostels. He also approved Rs. 110.52 crore out of the pending Rs. 185.27 crore for diet charges in hostels and instructed the immediate payment of electricity bills for BC hostels. Additionally, Chandrababu announced the upgrade of two BC girls’ schools in Satya Sai district to residential colleges and the establishment of a new residential school for BC girls in Kuppam.
Reiterating his commitment to BC communities, Chandrababu announced the restoration of 34% reservation for BCs in local bodies, a promise made during the elections. He also assured that the government would legally defend this decision if challenged. Furthermore, the Chief Minister emphasized the need to support traditional occupations, such as weaving and laundry services, by reviving and constructing new Dobhi Ghats and providing GST exemptions for handloom products.
Chandrababu stressed the importance of accountability in utilising funds allocated for BC welfare. He ordered an audit of loans disbursed by the BC Corporation since 2014 to assess their impact and ensure proper utilization. The AP Chief Minister also called for the collection of data on beneficiaries of BC welfare schemes to ensure effective implementation.
These measures reflect the TDP-led government’s focus on empowering BC communities and addressing their long-standing issues. Chandrababu’s directives aim to ensure transparency, accountability, and timely implementation of welfare schemes for the backward classes in Andhra Pradesh.
