Jagan Distributes Enhanced Pension Of Rs 3,000

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy today distributed enhanced social security pensions of Rs 3,000 per month for 66.34 lakh beneficiaries (elderly, widowed and disabled people) under the YSR Pension Kanuka scheme at the Rangaraya Medical College Grounds in Kakinada.

With this, Andhra Pradesh is reportedly now ranked number one in India as far as monthly pension amount and the number of beneficiaries availing themselves of it are concerned.

Additionally, with this, Jagan has fulfilled one of his most significant election promises, which was to hike pensions for all beneficiaries from Rs 2,000 to Rs 3,000 in a phased manner (increasing it by Rs 250 every year) since coming to power in 2019.

The disbursal was done amidst a sea of supporters shouting Jai Jagan slogans at the grounds.

Speaking on the occasion, Jagan said, "As we enter a new year, I don't want the change to be limited to just a date/calendar. In this new year, I want to bring about a meaningful change in the lives of the poor. Hence, I have decided to increase the pension amount under YSR Pension Kanuka to Rs 3,000/month for all those eligible. This is my government's commitment to provide enhanced financial security and dignity to our most vulnerable citizens."

He further highlighted how, in the last 4 years alone, with relentless efforts made by the YSRCP government's officials, the number of beneficiaries had almost doubled.

The Chief Minister said, "Six months prior to the 2019 elections, only Rs 1,000 was given as monthly pension, and to only 39 lakh beneficiaries. Former chief minister and TDP chief Chandrababu Naidu used to allocate only Rs 400 crore monthly for pensions. But the YSRCP government spends nearly Rs 2,000 crore in a month because this is our commitment to our people."

The distribution of enhanced pensions will continue until January 8, 2024, covering over 66 lakh beneficiaries.