Amaravati: Andhra Pradesh is set to strengthen welfare and educational opportunities for Backwards Classes (BCs). Minister for BC Welfare, Handlooms, and Textiles, S. Savita, announced that the government will soon fill 1,291 sanitation staff and 142 cook-comaty posts in BC hostels across the state.
New Gurukuls and Upgraded Junior Colleges
The government plans to establish 10 new MJP BC Gurukuls and upgrade 6 existing Gurukuls into junior colleges. Minister Savita explained that these schools will provide quality education and skill development. The government will also train BC students as industrial entrepreneurs, giving them opportunities in MSME parks across Andhra Pradesh.
Welfare and Infrastructure Development
Over the past 20 months, the coalition government has distributed ₹31,331.25 crore to 1.59 crore BC beneficiaries through various programs. These include the fishermen relief scheme, Talliki Vandana, Deepam-2, auto driver services, and NTR Bharosa social security funds.
The government has constructed BC buildings in 13 districts, with completed projects in Chittoor and Srikakulam. Ongoing construction continues in Eluru, Nellore, and Kurnool. These buildings provide study spaces, classrooms, and administrative offices for BC students.
Hostel Facilities and Student Support
Minister Savita said 84,446 students in 1,100 BC welfare hostels currently receive accommodation and education. 39,832 students in 109 MP Gurukuls also benefit from lodging and teaching. Under the PM-YSR Yashasvi scheme, the government released ₹145 crore for 3,05,840 students.
To improve infrastructure, the government has sanctioned ₹69.33 crore to provide UPS systems, RO plants, mosquito nets, and kitchen utensils in hostels. As part of the Swachh Bharat Mission, 971 toilets are under construction to ensure hygiene.
Scholarships and Industrial Training
The government allocated ₹420.72 crore for post-matric scholarships (MTF) and ₹933.76 crore for tuition fee reimbursements (RTF). BC students will also receive priority training in MSME parks to become industrial entrepreneurs. The government follows a “one industrial entrepreneur per family” policy to empower BC youth economically.
BC Study Circles and Coaching
The state has set up 13 BC study circles and a dedicated civil services coaching centre in Gollapudi, Vijayawada. These centres provided free coaching to 6,364 students for MEGA DSC exams, resulting in 281 BC students being selected as teachers.
Additional Support for Students and Communities
The government has provided track suits and boots for MP Gurukul students. It also allocated ₹160.60 crore for constructing and renovating schools. From April 1, the government will provide free electricity to 200 handloom units, 500 weaving units, and barber shops run by BC community members.
Commitment to BC Welfare
Minister Savita emphasised that the coalition government prioritises BC welfare. The upcoming Aadarana 3.0 scheme will continue the benefits of Aadarana 1.0 and 2.0. The government remains committed to education, employment, and industrial empowerment for BCs.
For the latest updates, click here.
