In a bold move to empower students, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has directed officials to implement a pioneering scheme offering bank loans at an incredibly low 25 paise interest rate. This initiative is designed to support students pursuing undergraduate and postgraduate degrees abroad, as well as those aiming for higher education at premier Indian institutions like IITs, IIMs, and medical colleges through NEET.
During a comprehensive review meeting with welfare departments at the Secretariat in Amaravati on Monday, Chief Minister Naidu emphasized that there should be no limit on the number of deserving beneficiaries. He also proposed a generous repayment period of 14 years, easing the financial burden on students and their families.
Furthering his commitment to accessible education, Mr. Naidu instructed officials to establish specialized training centers in two key regions. These centers will provide high-quality coaching for Backward Classes (BC) students preparing for competitive exams like IIT-JEE and NEET, ensuring equitable opportunities for all.
The Chief Minister also called for a thorough study into the feasibility of transforming existing hostels into fully-equipped residential schools. He highlighted that such an upgrade would significantly enhance the quality of education provided. Furthermore, he mandated that all SC, ST, and BC hostels undergo necessary repairs and modernization within a year, with a strong emphasis on maintaining impeccable hygiene standards across all residential educational institutions.
Addressing facility management, Mr. Naidu suggested allocating a portion of the ‘Thalliki Vandanam’ scheme funds specifically for the proper maintenance of school toilets. To promote sustainability and reduce operational costs, he also directed the installation of solar power systems in all residential schools and hostels.
Beyond education, Chief Minister Naidu tasked welfare departments with overseeing the ‘One Family – One Entrepreneur’ program. He also ordered the prompt disbursement of outstanding payments to Imams and pastors and recommended extending the application deadline for Haj pilgrims.
Safeguarding Community Assets and Ensuring Representation
In other significant directives, Mr. Naidu called for a fresh assessment of Wakf properties to ensure their protection and proper management. He also stressed the importance of taking all necessary legal measures to secure a 34% reservation for Backward Classes in local bodies, underscoring his commitment to social justice and equitable representation.
The meeting was attended by key ministers, including Dola Bala Veeranjaneya Swamy, N.Md. Farooq, and S. Savitha, alongside other senior officials.