Jagan Mohan Reddy Cabinet approves ₹5,000 crore for women from ST, Dalit, Backward Classes communities

The Cabinet also approved the release of a notification by the Mega District Selection Committee (DSC) to fill 6,100 teaching positions.

BySouth First Desk

Published Jan 31, 2024 | 6:29 PM Updated Feb 01, 2024 | 1:10 AM

Andhra Pradesh Cabinet meeting. (X)

Ahead of the Andhra Pradesh elections, the Jagan Mohan Reddy-led YSRCP government in the state has decided to go all out to woo different sections of voters.

In a Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy on Wednesday, 31 January, it was decided to allocate a whopping ₹5,000 crore for the welfare of women from backward class and marginalised communities. The move comes even as Jagan Mohan Reddy, in his public addresses, has been highlighting welfare schemes from his government.

Andhra Pradesh is scheduled to go to polls along with the Lok Sabha elections in 2024.

In an apparent move to address unemployment, the Cabinet approved the release of a notification by the Mega District Selection Committee (DSC) to fill 6,100 teaching positions. This decision, which fulfils the demands of DSC aspirants, is expected to provide a substantial opportunity for job seekers in Andhra Pradesh. The decision is also set to pacify anger over DSC aspirants over pending vacancies.

Also Read: YSRCP eyes all three Rajya Sabha seats in Andhra; in a first, TDP may have no RS MP

Other Cabinet decisions

The state Cabinet also gave its nod for filling 689 vacant positions in the Forest Department. This decision aligns with the government’s commitment to strengthening various sectors, including forestry and environmental conservation.

In a notable move, the Cabinet approved the allocation of a significant sum of ₹5,000 crore for the welfare of women belonging to Backward Classes (BC), Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Minority communities. This financial provision is expected to uplift and empower marginalised sections of society, the government said.

The Cabinet further approved the release of funds under the fourth tranche of the YSR Cheyutha Scheme, scheduled for 16 February. This welfare programme focuses on providing financial support to women.

A noteworthy decision involved the Cabinet’s approval of proposals by the State Investment Promotion Board (SIPB) for investments worth ₹22,302 crore in the power sector. “This move is anticipated to enhance infrastructure and stimulate economic growth,” a press note from the government said.

The Cabinet also extended the retirement age of non-teaching staff in government universities from 60 years to 62 years.

Further, in a bid to streamline governance at the grassroots-level, the Cabinet made it mandatory for all Gram Panchayats to appoint a Secretary.

As the state progresses with these initiatives, the Cabinet will soon announce the date for the Vote on Account budget.

Also Read: YSRCP leaders have forgotten the sacrifices I made for the party: YS Sharmila