Andhra Pradesh: 54.88Lakh get pensions at doorstep

Amaravati: For the fourth successive month, and third under lockdown, pensions were distributed at the doorstep of beneficiaries by village and ward volunteers.

Braving scorching heat and the corona pandemic, 2,37,615 village/ward volunteers completed the commitment of the state government by distributing pensions at the doorstep of beneficiaries on the first day of the month, on Monday.

By 4.30 pm, about 54.88 lakh beneficiaries received the pension totalling to 94.75 per cent. Under YSR Pension Kanuka, as many as 58.22 lakh are going to be benefited , while the state government is spending Rs 1,421.20 crore towards the initiative. Amidst Covid-19, officials have started using geotagging technology replacing the biometric for safe distribution.

To prevent the virus spread, the volunteers have used photo identification method instead of biometric system and a separate app was used to capture the beneficiary's picture through geotagging. The volunteers have taken strict measures while distributing the pensions.

Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy has been firm on his promises and proved that the YSRCP government would not compromise in delivering welfare schemes to the public even during these tough times. The old-age pensioners and physically-challenged are facing difficulties due to lockdown and now providing them the pensions at their doorsteps has built confidence among them by the concern shown. The government officials are motoring the distribution of pensions to every beneficiary and asserted that everyone will receive the pension and need not worry about it. While the pension distribution is a monthly exercise for volunteers, their work at this point in time during corona is adorable. Volunteers are also creating awareness among the pensioners to stay safe at home and checking over them for the virus symptoms.