In a powerful address on Saturday, Union Minister of State for Rural Development, Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar, lauded Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu’s leadership, comparing it to an ‘experienced auto driver skillfully navigating a family to their destination.’ This commendation came during the launch of the State government’s ambitious ‘Auto Driverla Sevalo’ (In the Service of Auto Drivers) welfare scheme in Guntur. This new initiative is set to provide vital annual financial assistance of ₹15,000 to auto, maxi cab, and motor cab drivers throughout Andhra Pradesh.
Marking the occasion, the Minister, distinctive in his khaki shirt, participated in an impressive rally of over 200 autos, traveling from TB Bungalow to the Revenue Kalyana Mandapam. There, alongside local MLA Galla Madhavi, he officially inaugurated the scheme. Dr. Pemmasani highlighted the stark contrast with the previous administration, where drivers received only ₹10,000 amidst burdensome green tax and deteriorating road conditions. He proudly stated that ‘Naidu’s government has not only slashed the green tax to a mere ₹3,000 but has also undertaken extensive road repairs and earmarked a substantial ₹60,000 crore in the State budget specifically for welfare programs.’
Tourism Minister Kandula Durgesh expressed profound gratitude to the Chief Minister, acknowledging the timely relief provided to drivers, whose earnings had been significantly affected by the introduction of free bus travel for women. Adding to this, MLA Galla Madhavi emphasized that this financial assistance is a direct recognition of the ‘diligent efforts of auto drivers who tirelessly ensure convenient short-distance transportation for the public.’
The impact of the scheme is already evident, with 13,193 drivers in Guntur district alone receiving benefits. This includes 5,078 beneficiaries from Guntur Urban, 1,338 from Tenali, 1,038 from Tadepalli Municipal Corporation, 711 from Pedakakani, 530 from Ponnuru, and several hundred more from other mandals such as Chebrolu (453), Medikonduru (404), Tadikonda (440), and Thulluru (399). The launch event was a major affair, attended by numerous ministers, district officials, and local civic leaders, underscoring the importance and widespread support for the initiative.