Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu reaffirmed his commitment to providing good governance and prioritising the welfare of Backward Classes (BCs), stating that the trust reposed in him by the people would not go in vain. Addressing a Praja Vedika at Vadlamanu in Agiripalli mandal of Eluru district on Friday, Naidu emphasised that real progress for all sections of society is being achieved only under the Telugu Desam Party-led NDA government.
Speaking on the occasion of Mahatma Jyotirao Phule’s birth anniversary, Naidu described Phule as a revolutionary who brought transformative change through education and social reform. “Phule remains an eternal inspiration; he fought against child marriages and promoted women’s education, even encouraging his wife to become the first woman teacher in India,” Naidu said. He highlighted how Phule’s ideals influenced Dr B R Ambedkar and inspired TDP founder, the late N T Rama Rao, who also championed women’s education by establishing a dedicated women’s university.
Naidu reiterated his government’s commitment to BC welfare, describing BCs as the “backbone of the TDP.” He announced that a law similar to the SC/ST Atrocities Act would be introduced to protect the rights and dignity of BCs. A sub-committee has already been constituted, and legislation will follow based on its recommendations.
The Chief Minister criticised the previous government for reducing BC reservations in local bodies from 34% to 24%, pledging to restore the original quota. He also announced a 33% quota for BCs in nominated posts. “TDP has always stood by the BCs and will continue to work for their upliftment along with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan,” he stated.
Highlighting ongoing welfare initiatives, the Chief Minister mentioned the establishment of residential schools for BC students, coaching centres for competitive examinations, and financial assistance of Rs 15 lakh for those pursuing higher education abroad. Separate community-specific plans, the Nayee Brahmin Corporation, and the MBC Federation are being strengthened to ensure inclusive development.
In a significant economic move, the government is allotting liquor outlets exclusively to toddy-tappers and extending medical facilities to handloom workers. Special subsidies for solar rooftop installations and a revised monthly honorarium for Nayee Brahmins working in temples—from Rs 15,000 to Rs 25,000—were also announced.
Naidu further said that Anna Canteens would be expanded, including in Vadlamanu, to ensure affordable meals for the needy. He added that schemes like Talliki Vandanam and Annadata would soon be launched for women and farmers respectively.
On infrastructure development, he assured that the Chintalapudi Lift Irrigation Project, currently delayed due to legal hurdles, would be completed. He also pledged full support to Minister Parthasarathy for the development of the Nuzvid segment.
Later in his address, the Chief Minister warned against the misuse of social media, asserting that stringent action would be taken against character assassination and misinformation. He urged parents to raise responsible citizens and not to take for granted the freedom ensured under the current government.
“No one felt safe under the previous regime. But now, while we’ve restored freedom, it must not be abused,” he cautioned.
Priority to BC welfare: CM Reaffirms public trust in him won’t be betrayed
