One lakh women entrepreneurs to be created within a year
* Agreements with 24 organizations to support women in business and market their products
* 45% investment subsidy for women to enhance their financial independence
* Launch of 'Shakti App' for women's safety
* ‘Talli Ki Vandana’ scheme to benefit all mothers, regardless of the number of children
* Maternity leave for government employees, even for election-related duties
* CM Chandrababu Naidu at International Women’s Day Event
* CM Interacts with Women in Markapuram
Markapuram, March 8, 2025: Andhra Pradesh CM Chandrababu Naidu announced that the state aims to create one lakh women entrepreneurs within a year, providing a 45% investment subsidy to support them. He said that anyone who harasses women will face severe consequences* and highlighted the launch of the Shakti App' for women's safety.
On the occasion of International Women’s Day, CM Naidu held a direct interaction with women in Markapuram, Prakasam district, answering their questions. The event was moderated by Bhargavi.
Key Excerpts from the Interaction:
Q: What is your vision behind creating one lakh women entrepreneurs?
CM: First, I extend my best wishes to all women on International Women’s Day. 25 years ago, I introduced DWCRA and MEPMA, which have faced challenges and evolved successfully. This year alone, these women’s groups have secured ₹35,000 crore in bank loans. Through ONDC, they have achieved four Guinness World Records, generating a turnover of ₹5 crore in just ten days. Women must leverage technology and market their products effectively to earn better profits.
Q: Which women have influenced your life the most?
CM: Women inspire society. Initially, my wife had no experience in business. Being NTR’s daughter, she never had the need to work. But when I started my small business in 1994, I asked her to manage it while I was busy in politics. She not only managed Heritage but also raised Lokesh and contributed to social work through the NTR Memorial Trust. Today, I proudly acknowledge my wife Bhuvaneshwari’s achievements.
Q: Can you share a life-changing incident involving your mother?
CM: We come from an agricultural family. My mother worked tirelessly for us. As a child, I used to walk 6 km daily to school in Chandragiri. She would wake up early, cook food, and prepare our meals by 6 AM. I still remember how the smoke from the traditional stove used to make her eyes water. **That’s why I introduced the Deepam Scheme, providing free LPG cylinders to women—an initiative no other government had thought of.
Q: Do you think your goal of providing bicycles to underprivileged girls in the past has been achieved?
CM: Yes. Earlier, society believed women were weak. Even in manual labor, men were paid more. When I provided *free bicycles to girls in grades 8–10, many criticized the idea. But today, those girls have completed their education and progressed in life.
Q: What inspired you to establish the DWCRA scheme?
CM: Women make up 50% of society, yet only men were working, limiting economic growth. I wanted to create a platform where women could gain financial independence and self-respect, leading to DWCRA's launch. Today, many families depend on the income of DWCRA women*, proving its success.
Q: How can rural women benefit from 'Work from Home' opportunities?
CM: The nature of work has changed post-COVID. Many companies are allowing remote work. We are setting up workstations in villages so that rural women can take up online jobs. Additionally, we will provide training programs in nearby towns. My government is responsible for bringing companies to provide employment.
Q: You recently encouraged couples to have more children. Why?
CM: Population decline is a serious concern. In China, Japan, and Europe, the elderly population is rising, and birth rates are falling. If this trend continues in India, it will be a problem in the next 20 years. Earlier, I promoted a two-child policy, but now I suggest having at least two or three children for the nation’s future. Under 'Talli Ki Vandana,' we will provide ₹15,000 per child to support mothers. Additionally, we have extended maternity leave benefits to government employees even if they have more than two children.
Q: How do you plan to turn every household into an entrepreneurial hub?
CM: Determination is key to success. No one is born successful. Ratan Tata built a business empire step by step. Similarly, we are bringing Ratan Tata Innovation Hubs to Andhra Pradesh, promoting AI and technology-driven businesses. Women will receive 45% investment subsidies and flexible degree opportunities to upgrade skills. I also introduced WhatsApp Governanceso that government services can be accessed from home.
Q: How can women leverage technology for financial growth?
CM: A mobile phone is a powerful tool. Earlier, when I promoted mobile usage, people mocked me. Today, everyone owns a smartphone. However, it should be used wisely for knowledge and business, not just entertainment. Technology has transformed agriculture and healthcare, and women can use it to enhance their businesses, too.
Q: How would you rate your wife, Bhuvaneshwari, as a business leader?
CM: I feel proud when I see her success. Through Heritage, she has created jobs, and through the NTR Trust, she has led many welfare initiatives*. The beneficiaries of these initiatives are the best judges of her work.
Q: Farmers in western Prakasam struggle for water. When will the Veligonda project be completed?
CM: The previous CM falsely claimed the Veligonda project was completed. In reality, I laid its foundation in 1996, and my government will ensure its completion. Additionally, we are working on linking the Godavari and Krishna rivers to eliminate drought in the state*.
Q: Since NDA came to power, TV and social media have become more disciplined. What steps are being taken for women's safety?
CM: We eliminated vulgar content from TV, social media, and even the Assembly. Strict legal action will be taken against anyone using abusive language. Additionally, under the Eagle System, we are cracking down on drugs and using drones to track illegal activities. Shakti App is our latest initiative, ensuring police reach women in distress within 7 minutes.
Q: How do you maintain your calm despite high-pressure responsibilities?
CM: My focus is always on the well-being of the Telugu people. Proper sleep, diet, exercise, and positive thinking keep me healthy. I wear a health-monitoring ring that tracks my sleep and fitness. I never take sick leave because my health impacts the state's progress. My goal is to increase Andhra Pradesh’s per capita income from ₹2.68 lakh to ₹58 lakh by 2047.
CM Chandrababu Naidu assured that the NDA government will empower women through financial aid, safety measures, and technology-driven opportunities. He emphasized that Andhra Pradesh would lead the country in women's empowerment and economic development.
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