Vijayawada: Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Thursday stressed that true satisfaction does not come from income alone but from contributing to the betterment of society. Speaking at the ‘People’s Partnership for Poverty Eradication’ (P4) programme held at a private hotel in Vijayawada, he urged industrialists to extend their support not only through investments but also by uplifting underprivileged families.
Naidu noted that in the past he had appealed to the business community to invest in the state’s economy, but was now calling on them to support the poor as well. “Many talented individuals have risen due to economic reforms, while others have been left behind. It is now our collective responsibility to bridge these inequalities. Even a small act of support by those who are better off can provide immense assurance to those in need,” he said.
He added that the P4 initiative has offered him a sense of fulfillment unlike any other reform in his long political career. “Groups in higher positions must act as mentors and partners in eradicating poverty,” he said.
Government Welfare with Citizen Participation
The Chief Minister also announced that he had personally adopted 250 families to lead by example. “This is not just about government schemes. While the state continues to provide welfare through pensions, Thalliki Vandhanam, Deepam, and free bus travel for women starting August 15, there is also a role for the public. You must contribute by helping adopted families develop skills and improve their livelihoods,” he said.
Strong Response from NRIs and Industry Leaders
The initiative drew a strong response from the business community and NRIs. Industrialist Mohan Reddy from Prakasam district came forward to adopt 729 families. Several others pledged to adopt hundreds of families and schools.
For those unable to provide financial assistance, the government introduced a ‘co-sponsor’ model to enable contributions in the form of skills and knowledge. Chief Secretary Vijay Anand, P4 Foundation Vice-Chairman Kutumbarao, and NRT Chairman Vemuri Ravi were among those present at the event.
