CM Chandrababu announces ‘Labour Addas’

Metro India News | AMARAVATI

Marking International Workers’ Day, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu unveiled a series of labour-centric and development-focused initiatives, including the establishment of dedicated “Labour Addas” across the state. Addressing a large public gathering at Pamidimukkala in Krishna district, the Chief Minister emphasised that the government’s commitment to rebuilding Andhra Pradesh is rooted in the same spirit of hard work embodied by labourers.

Announcing that 15 Labour Addas will be set up in the first phase across key urban and semi-urban centres, he said these facilities would evolve into skill development hubs. Workers would be able to utilise these centres to upgrade their skills during non-working days, access modern tools, and improve employability. The initiative aims to formalise and dignify informal labour markets while enhancing productivity.

Highlighting welfare measures, the Chief Minister detailed financial assistance schemes for construction workers, including Rs 25,000 for marriage support (extended to workers’ daughters), Rs 20,000 for childbirth assistance, ₹60,000 as compensation for natural death, and Rs 20,000 towards funeral expenses. He also noted that four dedicated labour courts are operational to ensure timely resolution of worker-related disputes. Additionally, new ESI hospitals are being planned in key industrial zones such as Achyutapuram, Guntur, Kurnool, Sri City, and Amaravati to strengthen healthcare access for workers.

On infrastructure, Naidu reaffirmed the government’s commitment to completing the Machilipatnam Port by December, stating that breakwater, dredging, and offshore works are progressing rapidly. He also reiterated that the Polavaram project would be completed by 2027, ensuring water security for the Krishna delta and preventing irrigation shortages during crucial agricultural seasons.

The Chief Minister underscored that the state is investing heavily in welfare, with over Rs 63,000 crore spent in the past 22 months on pensions alone, benefiting more than 6.2 million people. He asserted that governance reforms, infrastructure expansion, and welfare schemes are being implemented simultaneously to restore Andhra Pradesh’s economic strength.

Naidu also pointed to improvements in the education sector under Nara Lokesh, noting better Class 10 results as an indicator of systemic reform. He called for continued discipline among public representatives and emphasised accountability, stating that feedback on MLAs’ performance would increasingly be sought from the public.

The event also saw the distribution of “Shrama Shakti” awards to outstanding workers and employers, recognising excellence in labour contributions. The Chief Minister concluded by reiterating that inclusive growth, driven by both welfare and development, remains the cornerstone of the state’s governance model.