A Journey Towards Inclusion & Dignity: CM Chandrababu to Launch Free Bus Travel for Persons with Disabilities under ‘Divyang Shakti’ Tomorrow
Amaravati, March 17: In a significant step towards inclusive governance and social empowerment, the Government of Andhra Pradesh will launch the Divyang Shakti Scheme tomorrow, providing free travel in RTC buses for persons with disabilities across the state. The initiative is being rolled out as a special Ugadi offering, reaffirming the government’s commitment to dignity, mobility, and equal opportunity for all citizens.
Hon’ble Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu will formally inaugurate the scheme at Amarvati, in the presence of Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan, Minister Nara Lokesh, and BJP Andhra Pradesh President PVN Madhav.
Following the inauguration, the Chief Minister, along with other dignitaries, will travel alongside beneficiaries, symbolising the government’s people-centric approach. A special community lunch will also be hosted by the Chief Minister for persons with disabilities, underscoring a message of inclusion and solidarity.
The Divyang Shakti Scheme is expected to benefit over 12.76 lakh people, including 11.16 lakh persons with disabilities, along with their attendants, across Andhra Pradesh.
Key features of the scheme include:
* Free bus travel for persons with disabilities in RTC services, including Stree Shakti buses
* 50% fare concession for attendants accompanying eligible beneficiaries
* Applicable to individuals with over 40% disability
* Expanded coverage across categories ranging from 4 to 21 types of disabilities
* Annual financial support of ₹207 crore to APSRTC by the government for implementation
In a statewide effort, MLAs will simultaneously launch Divyang Shakti programmes in their respective constituencies. They will accompany beneficiaries in RTC buses and participate in community meals.
The scheme is being implemented in line with the Chief Minister’s announcement made on December 3, on the occasion of International Day of Persons with Disabilities.
The scheme builds on the success of the Stree Shakti Scheme, under which 52 crore journeys have been undertaken by women free of cost, with the government making a cumulative investment exceeding ₹1,826 crore to support their mobility and empowerment.
With Divyang Shakti, Andhra Pradesh continues to set a benchmark in welfare delivery ensuring mobility, access, and dignity for every citizen.
