CM Chandrababu Naidu sets target to achieve ₹58 lakh per capita income in Andhra Pradesh by 2047

Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu during the International Women’s Day celebrations at Markapuram on March 8, 2025.
| Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has set a target to increase the State’s per capita income from ₹2.68 lakh at present to ₹58 lakh by 2047.

Speaking at International Women’s Day celebrations at Markapuram in Prakasam district on Saturday (March 8, 2025), Mr. Naidu said the State would lead the country in women’s empowerment and economic development.

In response to a question on how he maintains his calm despite high-pressure responsibilities, Mr. Naidu said, “My focus is always on the well-being of the Telugu people. Proper sleep, diet, exercise, and positive thinking keep me healthy. I wear a health-monitoring ring that tracks my sleep and fitness. I never take sick leave because my health impacts the State’s progress.”

Mr. Naidu said the NDA government would empower women through financial aid, safety measures, and technology-driven opportunities.

Mr. Naidu said he had introduced DWCRA and MEPMA, which faced challenges but evolved successfully. “This year alone, these women’s groups have secured ₹35,000 crore in bank loans,” he said.

“I wanted to create a platform where women can gain financial independence and self-respect, leading to the launch of DWCRA. Today, many families depend on the income of DWCRA women,” he said.

Referring to the adoption of technology, the Chief Minister said, “Women must leverage technology and market their products effectively to earn better profits. A mobile phone is a powerful tool. However, it should be used wisely for knowledge and business, not just for entertainment.”

“Technology has transformed agriculture and healthcare, and women can use it to enhance their businesses. The nature of work changed post-COVID. Many companies are allowing their employees to work remotely. We are setting up workstations in villages so that rural women can take up online jobs. We will provide training programmes in nearby nearby,” Mr. Naidu said.

The Chief Minister also said that the Ratan Tata Innovation Hub would promote AI and technology-driven businesses. “Women will get 45% investment subsidies and flexible degree opportunities to upgrade their skills,” he said.

In reply to a question on encouraging couples to have more children, he said, “Population decline is a serious concern. In China, Japan, and Europe, the elderly population is rising, and birth rates are falling. If this trend continues in India, it will be a problem in the next 20 years. Earlier, I promoted two-child policy. Now, I suggest having at least two or three children for the nation’s future. Under ‘Thalli Ki Vandanam,’ we will provide ₹15,000 per child to support mothers. We have extended maternity leave benefits to government employees even if they have more than two children.”

The Chief Minister has been campaigning extensively for some time about population balance. Alliance government has taken another key decision to encourage child-related policies. Normally, the government gives maternity leave to every married woman government employees for two deliveries. They get six months of paid leave. On Women’s Day, the CM announced that maternity leave will be given for all deliveries, regardless of the number of children. He said, “If the country has to avoid facing the problem of aging in the coming days, it needs to move forward with youth power, family planning should be avoided.”

Asked about the current status of the Veligonda project, Mr. Naidu said, “The previous Chief Minister falsely claimed that Veligonda project was completed. I laid its foundation in 1996 and my government will ensure its completion. We are also working on linking the Godavari with the Krishna to eliminate drought in the State.”

On a question about the steps being taken for women’s safety, he said, “Shakti App is our latest initiative, ensuring that the police reaches the women in distress within seven minutes.”