Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu kicked off the distribution of the enhanced NTR Bharosa Pension Scheme on Monday, marking the fulfillment of a key electoral promise made by the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and its allies.
In a symbolic gesture of solidarity with beneficiaries, Chief Minister Naidu personally visited homes in Penumaka village, Mangalagiri constituency, Guntur district, to deliver pension cheques.
Interacting closely with recipients, he listened to their concerns and shared moments over tea, emphasizing a direct connection with those benefitting from the scheme.
NTR Bharosa Pension Scheme:
The NTR Bharosa Pension Scheme now provides a monthly social security pension of Rs 4,000, up from Rs 3,000, benefiting elderly citizens, widows, and other deserving sections of society.
This increase reflects the government’s commitment to alleviate economic disparities and improve the quality of life for vulnerable groups.
Addressing a gram sabha at Masjid Centre after his visits, Chief Minister Naidu however reaffirmed his government’s dedication to social welfare, echoing the principles of NTR (Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao) who regarded society as a temple and its people as sacred.
He further articulated a vision of a society devoid of economic inequalities, underscoring the administration’s proactive stance on inclusive growth.
Meanwhile, the distribution process involved 1.25 lakh employees from village and ward secretariats, aided by volunteers, ensuring efficient delivery of pensions to over 65.31 lakh beneficiaries statewide.
Each recipient received Rs 7,000, comprising the revised Rs 4,000 monthly pension for June and Rs 3,000 as arrears for the past three months.
Minister for Human Resources Development, Nara Lokesh, also addressed the gathering. He expressed gratitude for the overwhelming electoral mandate received from Mangalagiri constituency.
He pledged to honor the trust placed in him by constituents, promising continued support and development initiatives.
The revised pension structure includes provisions for various marginalized groups such as single women, handloom workers, fishermen, and transgender individuals, with special provisions for the physically challenged and those suffering from serious ailments.
The government anticipates an additional monthly burden of over Rs 819 crore due to these enhancements, totaling Rs 4,408 crore disbursed annually.
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