Government to enact a law soon to ensure protection of Backward Classes:CM

Tourism corridor from Suryalanka to Chirala to be developed with Rs.97 crore under Swadesh Darshan scheme: CM

Mumbai: Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu announced that the Coalition Government will soon enact a law to ensure the protection of Backward Classes.

Participating in the 12th National Handloom Day celebrations at Kothapeta village in Chirala constituency of Bapatla district on Friday, the Chief Minister launched   ‘Netanna Sevalo’ welfare scheme and released Rs.179 crore as financial assistance to 71,536 eligible handloom families, providing Rs.25,000 to each family.

Later addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said that despite the State’s financial situation, there will be no compromise on welfare or development. He cautioned people against conspiracies aimed at obstructing Andhra Pradesh’s progress and warned that the government would deal firmly with those attempting to derail development.

The Chief Minister said National Handloom Day commemorates the spirit of the Swadeshi movement and that the launch of the Netanna Sevalo scheme would make the occasion memorable.  He said handloom is not merely an occupation; it is a symbol of India’s cultural heritage. Andhra Pradesh is home to several world-renowned handloom traditions including Chirala, Venkatagiri, Dharmavaram, Uppada, Mangalagiri, Ponduru, Pedana, Srikalahasti and Narasapuram. Around 1.27 lakh people depend on the handloom sector for their livelihood,” he said.He highlighted the government’s support measures for the sector including free electricity up to 200 units per month for handloom families and 500 units for power loom units, benefiting 62,541 handloom families and 10,032 power loom units. NTR Pension Bharosa for handloom workers from the age of 50.Monthly pensions of Rs.4,000 to 85,000 weavers, costing Rs.35 crore per month and Rs.420 crore annually.Rs.79 crore in cash credit support to 109 Primary Handloom Cooperative Societies. Approval of 10 handloom clusters under the Small Cluster Development Programme at a cost of Rs.10 crore. Enhanced market access through the Handloom Marketing Assistance programme.Development of special infrastructure in Uppada, a Handloom Park at Mangalagiri, a Handloom and Handicrafts Museum at Shakhamuru in Amaravati and a sustainable textile recycling unit in Visakhapatnam with an investment of Rs.4,200 crore.

The Chief Minister reiterated that the Coalition government stands firmly with Backward Classes. The government committed not only to the welfare of BCs but also to ensuring their protection through legislation. The draft law is already prepared.

Besides the government has been implementing several initiatives for various BC communities. During the fishing ban period, we provided Rs.505 crore over two years to 1.34 lakh fishing families at Rs.20,000 each. Mining leases have been allotted to Vaddera communities, excise shops to toddy tappers, and an additional Rs.20,000 subsidy is being provided for 3 KW rooftop solar installations for BC beneficiaries. “He also announced that the government is introducing Universal Health Insurance of Rs.2.5 lakh for every citizen, the Chief Minister added.

Criticising the previous government, the Chief Minister said Andhra Pradesh had been left without a capital city, damaging the State’s reputation.”We are building Amaravati as a world-class capital. The previous rulers played politics with the capital and divided the State’s future. Every State proudly showcases its capital city. We have restarted Amaravati works after assuming office. The Seed Access Road, the capital’s main arterial road, will be inaugurated on August 13.”

The Chief Minister said the Coalition Government has restored Andhra Pradesh’s image by attracting investments and industries. He cautioned public to remain vigilant against conspiracies and isolate those who seek to derail the State’s progress.

The Chief Minister said Chirala’s handloom products enjoy nationwide recognition and that the town was once known as “Mini Mumbai” because of its thriving textile industry. “We will restore Chirala to its former glory. The Suryalanka-Bapatla-Chirala coastal belt is being developed into a major tourism destination. A tourism corridor from Suryalanka to Chirala is being developed with Rs.97 crore under the Swadesh Darshan scheme.

Later the Chief Minister publicly reviewed the performance of district officials using departmental performance reports. He also visited  exhibition stalls, unveiled a micro-art portrait of himself created using 40 pencils by young artist Mahathi, released the Bay of Bapatla website and handbook showcasing beaches in the district, launched the Bapatla LEAPS youth skill development programme and witnessed the signing of agreements with four organisations, including Fabindia, to promote the handloom sector.