Andhra Pradesh CM Launches Deepam 2.0 Scheme for Women

On November 1, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu visited Edupuram in Srikakulam district to launch the Deepam 2.0 scheme, aimed at empowering women by providing them with free gas cylinders. During his visit, Naidu personally handed over a gas cylinder to a beneficiary, Santhamma, and even lit her stove, preparing tea as a gesture of support for the initiative.

Deepam 2.0 Scheme Objectives

• The scheme aims to empower women by providing free access to clean cooking energy.
• Women will receive three free gas cylinders per year under the scheme.
• The initiative is part of Naidu’s broader efforts to improve living conditions in Andhra Pradesh.

Key Features of the Scheme

• Free cooking gas cylinders are distributed to eligible women, reducing the financial burden of traditional cooking methods.
• The initiative promotes the use of cleaner cooking fuel (LPG), enhancing household health and safety.
• Subsidies are provided for acquiring and managing LPG connections and equipment.

CM Naidu’s Commitment

• Naidu emphasized the joy and satisfaction of seeing women benefiting from the scheme.
• He highlighted that the scheme fulfills one of the “Super 6” election promises.
• Naidu’s post on X (formerly Twitter) expressed his happiness in seeing women benefit from the program and reiterated his commitment to women’s empowerment.

Promises and Other Welfare Measures

• As part of his election promises, Naidu pledged Rs 1,500 per month for every woman in Andhra Pradesh.
• Additional benefits include three free gas cylinders annually and free bus travel for women on state-run RTC buses.
• The “Thalliki Vandhanam” program promises Rs 15,000 annually for school-going students.
• Naidu stressed his commitment to ensuring the security and future of women in the state.

Focus on Women’s Empowerment

• CM Naidu’s initiatives focus on reducing the financial burden on women and eliminating smoke from kitchens to ensure healthier cooking environments.
• He stated that helping women and girls has always been a priority, as their happiness and blessings are central to his political goals.

Historical Context of Deepam Scheme

• The Deepam 2.0 scheme is an extension of the earlier Deepam scheme introduced by Naidu.
• The program continues to support women like Santhamma, who benefited from both the initial Deepam scheme and the updated Deepam 2.0.

Impact of the Scheme

• The scheme aims to reduce reliance on traditional cooking methods like firewood, improving health outcomes and environmental sustainability.
• It is expected to enhance the quality of life for women by providing easier access to modern cooking solutions and reducing household chores.