Across the Rayalaseema region, ministers, MLAs, and government officials gathered to inaugurate the ‘In the Service of Auto Drivers’ scheme. The launch was marked by enthusiastic rallies, with autorickshaws parading through districts and mandals, symbolizing the community’s excitement.
A highlight of the launch was in Banaganapalle, Nandyal district, where Roads and Buildings Minister B.C. Janardhan Reddy joined a rally. Donning the traditional khaki uniform of an autorickshaw driver, the Minister personally participated in the procession from the bus stand to the MPDO office before addressing the drivers directly.
During his address, Minister Reddy announced that 528 autorickshaw drivers in Banaganapalle mandal alone would receive aid, with the benefit extending to 1,170 drivers across the entire constituency. State-wide, an impressive 2,90,669 drivers are poised to benefit. He emphasized the government’s commitment by confirming an increase in annual financial assistance from the previous ₹10,000 to a more substantial ₹15,000, noting that this move also expanded the beneficiary count by 30,000.
Reddy further highlighted the NDA government’s swift action in repairing pothole-riddled roads, investing ₹1,000 crore shortly after taking office. This initiative, he stated, has significantly reduced vehicle damage for autorickshaw drivers. Additionally, he pointed out another relief measure: the reduction of Green Tax on older vehicles from ₹20,000 to ₹3,000, providing substantial financial respite to vehicle owners.
In Chittoor, the scheme was launched with the participation of MP D. Prasada Rao and Collector Sumit Kumar, among other dignitaries. MP Rao reiterated the state government’s dedication to addressing and resolving the challenges faced by autorickshaw drivers.
Similar ceremonies took place in Sri Sathya Sai district, where Hindupur MP B.K. Pardhasarathi and Kadiri MLA K. Venkata Prasad inaugurated the program in Kadiri town. As a gesture of gratitude and reverence, local autorickshaw drivers performed ‘palabhisekham’ (a ritualistic anointing) on a photograph of Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu.
In Nandyal, District Collector Rajakumari Ganiya officially launched the scheme and encouraged drivers to utilize the financial aid responsibly for vehicle repairs, insurance payments, and securing necessary fitness certificates.
Kurnool district also saw the scheme’s inauguration, with Collector A. Siri announcing that 13,495 individuals would benefit, receiving a direct deposit of ₹20.24 crore into their accounts. Panyam MLA Gouru Charitha Reddy praised the NDA government for exceeding their ‘Super Six’ promises and effectively delivering on their commitments.