Free Bus Travel for Differently-Abled: AP Launches Divyang Shakti Scheme

The Andhra Pradesh government has unveiled the Divyang Shakti Scheme , a major initiative aimed at empowering differently-abled individuals. The program was inaugurated by Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu alongside Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan .

To mark the launch, the leaders embarked on a symbolic bus journey from Mangalagiri to Penumaka , traveling with scheme beneficiaries. Along the route, the leaders were warmly welcomed by citizens and took the opportunity to personally engage with passengers, listening to their concerns and understanding their requirements.

After covering around 11 kilometers, CM Chandrababu, Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan, and Minister Nara Lokesh reached the camp office, where they held an interactive session with the beneficiaries. The leaders also shared a meal with the differently-abled, discussing their challenges and emphasizing the government’s focus on improving accessibility and convenience.

The scheme offers free travel to beneficiaries with over 40% disability across 21 categories on APSRTC city ordinary, Metro Express, Palle Velugu, Ultra Palle Velugu, and Express buses. Caregivers accompanying them will receive a 50% fare concession. Approximately 12.75 lakh people are expected to benefit from this initiative, with the state government allocating ₹207 crore annually.

CM Chandrababu highlighted the government’s ongoing commitment to the welfare of differently-abled citizens. He noted that disability pensions have been increased from ₹500 to ₹6,000, with additional support of ₹10,000 for those with serious health conditions and ₹15,000 for bedridden individuals. He added that beneficiaries could save up to ₹2,000 per month on travel costs through the new scheme.