■    Universal Health Policy: Rs.25 lakh coverage per family, 1.63 crore families, 3,257 procedures.

■    Medical Colleges: 10 new colleges in two phases under PPP model; admissions by 2027-28.

■    Fake News Law: Sub-committee formed to draft strict legislation.

■   Industrial Boost: Rs.3,000 crore investments cleared; over 5,000 jobs expected.

■   Tourism Push: Incentives for hotels in Amaravati, Bhogapuram, Mahanandi.

■   Green Energy: Large-scale solar, wind, hybrid projects approved.

metro india news  I amaravati

In a significant move aimed at strengthening public welfare, the Andhra Pradesh Cabinet on Thursday approved the rollout of a Universal Health Policy that will cover every family in the state, regardless of their economic background.

Chaired by Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, the 29th Cabinet meeting endorsed the integration of Ayushman Bharat and the Dr. NTR Vaidya Seva Scheme under a hybrid model. Under this initiative, families will receive free medical coverage of up to Rs. 25 lakh per year. About 1.63 crore families stand to benefit from the decision.

According to officials, treatment will be available across 2,493 empanelled hospitals, covering 3,257 procedures. Claims up to Rs.2.5 lakh will be handled by insurance companies, while expenses beyond that will be borne by the NTR Vaidya Seva Trust. 

“We want every citizen to feel secure when it comes to health emergencies. This reform strengthens both access and financial protection,” the Chief Minister said.

The Cabinet also approved the establishment of 10 new medical colleges across the state under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. The first phase will see colleges set up in Adoni, Madanapalle, Markapuram, and Pulivendula, while six more locations will follow. Admissions are expected to begin by 2027–28.

Another key decision was the constitution of a Cabinet sub-committee to draft regulations aimed at curbing the spread of misinformation on social media. Home Minister V. Anita, Nadendla Manohar, and other ministers will lead the effort. CM Naidu stressed that while freedom of expression is vital, it “should not cross limits” and reiterated the need for strict laws against fake posts.

On the industrial front, the Cabinet cleared several high-value projects, including investments from Mother Dairy, Ace International, Apollo Tyres, and Skyrroot Aerospace, promising thousands of jobs. Renewable energy proposals, including solar and wind projects, were also greenlit, underscoring the state’s push for clean energy.

The meeting ended with the Cabinet congratulating the Centre for its landmark GST reforms, while Naidu expressed confidence that India would soon emerge among the world’s top three economies.