In a significant meeting held on Wednesday in Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh BJP State President and MLC P.V.N. Madhav, accompanied by State Organisational Secretary Madhukar, called upon Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu. The primary agenda for the BJP leaders was to press for the long-standing demands of the Vishwakarma community and various nomadic tribes, alongside extending a special invitation.
During their discussion, Mr. Madhav formally invited Chief Minister Naidu to the upcoming Khadi Fair, an event meticulously organized by the BJP in Vijayawada on October 2nd, commemorating Gandhi Jayanthi.
Beyond the invitation, Mr. Madhav presented two detailed memoranda outlining key proposals. The first focused on the Vishwakarma community, advocating for the establishment of a majestic 100-foot-tall Vishwakarma statue and a dedicated Vishwakarma Knowledge Centre in Amaravati. Additionally, he proposed a permanent exhibition center for Swadeshi products.
Addressing specific needs, Mr. Madhav urged the Chief Minister to allocate reserved spaces within municipal and corporation complexes for skilled carpenters and goldsmiths. He also sought old-age pensions for Vishwabrahmin artisans over 50 years of age and a tailored industrial policy designed to provide accessible loans for Vishwakarma-related professions.
Furthering his appeal for the Vishwakarma community, the BJP chief suggested that Vishwakarma Jayanthi be recognized and observed as a statewide Labour Day. He also championed the naming of a skill-based university after Vishwakarma and called for a substantial strengthening of the Vishwabrahmin Welfare Corporation.
Turning his attention to the challenges faced by nomadic tribes, Mr. Madhav put forth several crucial recommendations. These included establishing a district-level verification agency to streamline caste certificate processes, ensuring proper sub-plan fund allocations, and the revitalization of existing Nomadic Tribes (NT) and Denotified Tribes (DNT) hostels. He also pushed for 100% subsidy housing for these communities, the creation of a dedicated State commission, and their enhanced inclusion in government-sponsored cultural and welfare programs.
Finally, Mr. Madhav emphasized the importance of enacting legislation against caste-based abuse, implementing a special welfare package for these vulnerable groups, and taking proactive measures to prevent forced religious conversions.