Metro India News | AMARAVATI

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has urged industrialists and NRIs to look beyond profits and extend meaningful support to the underprivileged, stating that “true satisfaction comes not from wealth, but from helping society.”

Addressing a gathering of entrepreneurs at a private hotel in Vijayawada, during a meeting on the P4 programme, Naidu said that while he had earlier invited industrialists to invest in the state, he is now asking them to also stand as a pillar of support for poor families.

“In my long political career, I have seen many reforms. But no initiative has given me the kind of fulfilment that the P4 programme brings. Economic reforms have benefited some and lifted them to great heights, while others have been left behind. It is now our collective responsibility to bridge that gap. Even a small contribution from those in privileged positions can provide immense hope to those struggling in poverty,” Naidu said.

The Chief Minister explained that the government is implementing a wide range of welfare schemes, including pensions, Thalliki Vandanam, Deepam, and free bus travel for women from August 15. However, he emphasised that private contributions can multiply the impact. “I have personally adopted 250 families. I urge you to adopt families, enhance their skills, and help them double their income. Welfare is the government’s duty, but responsible assistance is yours,” he told the gathering.

Naidu’s call received an overwhelming response. Prakasam district industrialist Mohan Reddy came forward to adopt 729 families in one go, while several NRIs and local business leaders pledged to support hundreds of families and schools. For those unable to provide financial aid, Naidu announced a ‘co-sponsor’ model, allowing them to share their knowledge and skills to empower adopted families.

The event was attended by Chief Secretary K. Vijayanand, P4 Foundation Vice-Chairman Kutumbarao, NRT Chairman Vemuri Ravi, and several other dignitaries, marking a strong push for public-private collaboration in tackling poverty across Andhra Pradesh.