- AP Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu launched Divyang Shakti- free travel facility for specially abled people in APSRTC services as Ugadi gift towards building inclusive and equitable opportunities for specially abled people.
- As part of the launch of “Divyang Shakti” the bus journey started from Mangalagiri Bus Stand along the Old Mangalagiri route, drawing widespread public attention and participation.
- Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu, Dy CM Pawan Kalyan and Minister Nara Lokesh took part in the programme, traveling along with divyang individuals in a Palle Velugu bus.
- The “Divyang Shakti” scheme stands as a transformative welfare initiative, providing free bus travel for divyang individuals in services operated by Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation, including City Ordinary, Metro Express, Palle Velugu, Ultra Palle Velugu, and Express buses.
- The initiative is designed to remove mobility barriers, enhance accessibility and foster confidence and independence among beneficiaries.
- Key features of the scheme include free bus travel for people with disabilities in select APSRTC services, 50 per cent fare concession for attendants accompanying beneficiaries and eligibility for individuals with over 40 per cent disability.
- The scheme will cover 21 categories of disabilities, while the government will spend Rs 207 crore on its implementation through the APSRTC, and is expected to benefit approximately 12.76 lakh people including attendants.
- By improving access to transportation, the program significantly enhances opportunities for education, healthcare, employment and social inclusion.
- Earlier, the government supported divyang people through the Cheyutha program and provided tricycles and also two-wheelers to boost their confidence.
- The state government provides a Rs 6,000 pension to persons with disabilities and provides Rs 10,000 for those with severe health issues and Rs 15,000 for those who are bedridden.
- The government spends Rs 33,000 crore annually on pensions. With the introduction of free travel facility, physically challenged people can travel free for their work spots and needs without any expense, saving up to Rs 2,000 per month.
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