CM launches YSR Vahana Mitra, extends timeline

Eluru (West Godavari dist):Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy launched the YSR Vahana Mitra scheme which provides Rs 10,000 allowance to self-employed drivers of autos, taxis and maxi-taxis and has announced that the scheme would be extended till month-end for those who could not apply on time, on Friday here. Interestingly, he announced this promise during his Padayatra here in Eluru itself.

The allowance was given to 1,73, 531 drivers with the click of a button and the amount was directly credited into their respective bank accounts which has shown to the people on screen.

Financial assistance of Rs 10,000 would be given every year and the amount will be credited into the bank accounts directly while the processing was done in a transparent manner.

He said that the amount of Rs 10,000 is for the recurring expenses for insurance and maintenance of the vehicle to procure fitness certificate. He added that those who could not make it on time can apply till month end and their applications would be considered.

'I have seen the difficulties of auto drivers. With the daily earnings of Rs 200 to Rs 500 you people have told me that it was becoming difficult to run the family and pay the insurance and other expenses required for getting fitment certificate. Thus we have evolved YSR Vahana Mitra scheme which will provide Rs 50,000 to the self-employed drivers in five years and road tax is abolished. Such a scheme is available only in our state,' he said.

Jagan had earlier posed with auto drivers and worn the khaki shirt, the uniform of auto driver. He reminded the services rendered by Village and Ward Volunteers in getting the data and putting the work in place along with the Transport Department officials and staff.

The auto drivers had thanked him for keeping up his word and for showing the recognition.

Earlier, the Chief Minister went round the stalls, showcasing the Navaratnas and interacted with people of various Departments from Amma Vodi, to Water Resources stall to Rythu Bharosa and other welfare schemes.

A banner of YSR Kanti Velugu, to be launched on October 10, was released on the occasion.

Deputy Chief Ministers Pilli Subhashchandra Bose, Alla Nani, Ministers Perni Nani T Vanita, Ch Sriranganadha Raju and other officials participated in this programme.