In a unique endeavour to ensure the economic empowerment of women, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu today flagged off the "She Auto" services in Vijayawada, one of his government's flagship schemes.
Under the scheme, the Chief Minister distributed auto-rickshaws worth Rs 1 crore cumulatively, to 49 women.
The government provided a 7% subsidy on each auto that originally costs Rs 1,91,000. The remaining amount can be paid by the beneficiaries in 40 installments at Rs 4,500 per month.
Officials have estimated that the beneficiaries could earn up to Rs 18,000 per month.
The Chief Minister said, "Since these autos run on CNG, they are environment-friendly. The scheme will also provide security to the women in the city."
On the occasion, the women auto drivers felicitated the Chief Minister.
Vijayawada MP Kesineni Nani, MLA Gade Rammohan Rao, Krishna district Collector Ahmad Babu and other officials were present.
filed in:Andhra Pradesh, Women's Development And Child Welfare