N. Chandrababu Naidu Announces Labour Addas Across Andhra Pradesh to Strengthen Worker Support System

VIJAYAWADA: N. Chandrababu Naidu on May Day announced the establishment of Labour Addas across Andhra Pradesh to strengthen welfare support for workers and improve employment opportunities through skill development initiatives.
Addressing a public gathering at Pamidimukkala village in the Pamarru Assembly constituency of Krishna district, the Chief Minister said 15 Labour Addas will be set up in major towns and cities during the first phase of the programme. He stated that these centres would later be transformed into advanced skill training hubs to help workers improve their professional capabilities and secure better livelihoods.
During the event, the Chief Minister presented Shramashakti Awards to outstanding workers and employers in recognition of their contributions. He also distributed social security pensions to beneficiaries and interacted with labourers and local residents.
Skill Centres to Empower Workers
Naidu said the proposed Labour Addas are aimed at providing organised support systems for workers across sectors. Besides offering assistance and welfare services, the centres will function as platforms for skill enhancement and employment guidance.
The Chief Minister said the State government is committed to protecting the interests of labourers while simultaneously accelerating Andhra Pradesh’s economic growth. He remarked that workers are the backbone of development and assured them of continued government support.
Highlighting the legacy of the Telugu Desam Party, Naidu said the party symbol represents both workers and farmers, reflecting its long-standing focus on welfare and economic empowerment of weaker sections.
Welfare Schemes for Construction Workers
The Chief Minister outlined several welfare measures introduced for labourers, particularly construction workers. Under the schemes, eligible workers and their families will receive financial assistance of Rs 25,000 for marriages, including support for daughters’ weddings.
Additional benefits include Rs 20,000 assistance during childbirth, Rs 60,000 compensation in cases of natural death and Rs 20,000 towards funeral expenses. Naidu added that four labour courts are functioning in the State to resolve disputes involving workers and employers efficiently.
Expansion of Healthcare Facilities
To strengthen healthcare infrastructure for workers, Naidu announced the establishment of new ESI hospitals in key industrial and urban centres including Atchutapuram, Guntur, Kurnool, Sri City and Amaravati.
He said the expansion of medical facilities would ensure quality healthcare access for industrial workers and labour families residing in different regions of Andhra Pradesh.
Polavaram and Machilipatnam Port Projects Gain Momentum
Speaking on infrastructure development, Naidu reiterated that the Polavaram Irrigation Project would be completed and dedicated to the nation ahead of the Godavari Pushkarams scheduled in 2027.
He said the government is also taking measures to prevent water shortages in the Krishna delta region by improving irrigation management systems.
On the Machilipatnam Port project, Naidu alleged that delays occurred after the previous YSRCP government cancelled tenders in 2019 despite land acquisition being completed in 2014. He informed that construction activities including breakwater works, dredging and offshore operations are now progressing rapidly.
According to the Chief Minister, the government has fixed a target to complete the port project by December this year.
Investments and Development Agenda
Naidu claimed that Andhra Pradesh is attracting major investments from global companies. He referred to interest shown by technology firms in setting up large-scale data centres in the State.
The Chief Minister mentioned that companies including Google and Reliance are exploring significant investment opportunities, with one proposed data centre project expected to involve an investment of nearly 17 billion US dollars.
Criticising the previous government, Naidu accused it of damaging governance systems and slowing development. He said the NDA government has spent the last 22 months rebuilding institutions and restoring investor confidence in the State.
No Increase in Electricity Charges
The Chief Minister assured the public that electricity tariffs would not be increased under the present administration. He alleged that the previous government had raised power charges several times, burdening consumers.
Naidu also said he would personally review the performance of MLAs by collecting direct public feedback during visits to Assembly constituencies. He warned that leaders failing to perform effectively would face strict action.
Praise for Rural Development and Education Reforms
Naidu appreciated the rural development initiatives being implemented by the Panchayati Raj Department under Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan.
He also commended reforms introduced in the education sector by HRD Minister Nara Lokesh, stating that the changes have contributed to improved SSC examination results across the State.
Excise Minister Kollu Ravindra, Labour Minister Vasamsetti Subhash, MP V Balashowry and several public representatives attended the programme.