Andhra Pradesh Takes the Lead in Social Security: YSRCP Government Increases Pension to Rs 3000/Month for 66.34 Lakh Beneficiaries
January 3, 2023 | Kakinada
In a historic development, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy fulfilled a significant electoral promise by distributing enhanced social security pensions of Rs 3000 per month to 66.34 lakh beneficiaries, including the elderly, widows, and disabled, under the ‘YSR Pension Kanuka’ scheme. With this move, Andhra Pradesh now leads the nation both in terms of the monthly pension amount and the number of beneficiaries.
CM Jagan, addressing a cheering crowd at the Rangaraya Medical College grounds in Kakinada, expressed his commitment to improving the lives of the less fortunate. He stated, ‘I want to bring about a meaningful change in the lives of the poor, providing enhanced financial security and dignity to our most vulnerable citizens.’
Highlighting the substantial increase in the number of beneficiaries, CM Jagan credited the efforts of the YSRCP Government officials, emphasizing that the current administration spends nearly Rs 2000 crores per month on pensions, a fivefold increase compared to the previous TDP Government.
Drawing a stark comparison between the two regimes, CM Jagan pointed out that during the TDP era, pension beneficiaries received only Rs 58,000 in five years, whereas under the YSRCP government, the same beneficiaries have received a total of Rs 1.47 lakh since 2019.
Commending the Village and Ward Secretariat system, CM Jagan acknowledged the tireless efforts of volunteers going door-to-door to ensure fair distribution of pensions, eliminating issues like bribery and discrimination faced during the TDP government.
Responding to criticism from JanaSena Chief Pawan Kalyan, CM Jagan defended his government’s initiatives, stating, ‘Pawan Kalyan’s complaint proves that both TDP and JSP are hand in glove against the poor. Their sole intention is to hinder the progress and welfare of the poor.’
The distribution of enhanced pensions commenced on January 1, 2024, and will continue until January 8, 2024, benefiting over 66 lakh beneficiaries.
