Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has announced good news for auto drivers across the state. On the occasion of Dasara, he unveiled the “Vahana Mitra” scheme, under which every auto driver will receive financial assistance of Rs.15,000.

The announcement was made during the “Super Six – Super Hit” public meeting held yesterday in Anantapur. The scheme comes in the backdrop of the government’s Stri Shakti scheme (free bus travel for women), which received an overwhelming response from women passengers. However, the free bus service led to a reduction in auto driver customers in urban areas, significantly affecting their income. In response to these concerns, the Chief Minister took this crucial step to support the welfare of auto drivers.

During the event, CM Chandrababu Naidu described auto drivers as social workers serving the public and emphasized that it is the government’s responsibility to support them. He added that welfare initiatives are not just for votes but are meant to improve the living standards of citizens.

The Chief Minister also highlighted other welfare schemes implemented by his government. He mentioned that over 5 crore free bus rides have been provided under the Stri Shakti scheme, while under the Thalliki Vandana scheme, mothers receive Rs.15,000 based on the number of children. Under the Annadata Sukhibhava scheme, cash benefits were directly credited to 47 lakh farmers, and the Deepam scheme provides three free LPG cylinders annually. Additionally, through the Mega DSC, 16,347 teaching positions have been filled across the state.

The public meeting was attended by several prominent leaders, including JanaSena Chief Pawan Kalyan, BJP State President Madhav, TDP State President Palla Srinivas Rao, along with Union and state ministers and coalition leaders.