Andhra Pradesh launches Divyang Shakti- free travel facility for specially abled

Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu launched Divyang Shakti- free travel facility for specially able people in APS RTC services today as Ugadi gift towards building an inclusive and equitable opportunities for specially abled people. The Government of Andhra Pradesh has successfully launched the “Divyang Shakti” initiative, reaffirming its commitment to empowering divyang 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.

Throughout the journey, the leaders warmly greeted citizens gathered along both sides of the road and engaged directly with divyang individuals, listening to their concerns, understanding their challenges and gaining first hand insights into their daily experiences.

Following the completion of the program, Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu, Dy CM Pawan Kalyan and Minister Nara Lokesh participated in the lunch hosted by CM Chandrababu Naidu for divyang individuals to celebrate the launch of the scheme.

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.

The scheme applies to individuals with more than 40 per cent disability across 21 categories 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.

The Government committed for annual allotment of Rs 207 crore for the effective implementation of the scheme, underscoring its strong focus on social justice and inclusive growth.

Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister asserted that the launch of  Divyanga Shakti scheme today has given him great satisfaction and happiness.He said persons with disabilities are not disabled—they are differently-abled individuals with unique talents, who have the strength to overcome challenges and achieve success.Earlier, the government supported divyang people through  Cheyutha program and provided tricycles and also two-wheelers to boost their confidence. He said the state government providing a Rs 6,000 pension to persons with disabilities and providing  Rs 10,000 for those with severe health issues and Rs 15,000 for those who are bedridden. The government spending Rs 33,000 crore annually on pensions. With the free travel facility introduced today physically challenged people can travel free for their work spots and needs without any expense, saving up to Rs 2,000 per month.

The Chief Minister said through Divyanga Shakti the government providing free bus travel to 12.75 lakh specially abled people. He said under the Stree Shakti scheme introduced for women so far, there have been 52 crore journeys recorded. Now, with Divyanga Shakti, lakhs of people will benefit.