Naidu Launches ‘Auto Driver Sevalo’ Scheme, Announces Welfare Board and App for Auto Drivers

Vijayawada, Oct 2025 : Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Saturday announced the establishment of an Auto Driver Welfare Board to secure the livelihoods and future of auto and maxi cab drivers. He also revealed plans to develop a dedicated ride-booking app—similar to Uber and Rapido—that will allow drivers to receive bookings directly from passengers, cutting out intermediaries.

“The government will soon launch a ride-booking app exclusively for auto drivers. It will connect passengers directly to drivers, eliminating the need to wait at auto stands,” Naidu said. “A control room will also be established, and all revenue generated through the app will be spent on the welfare of drivers.”

The Chief Minister made these announcements while launching the ‘Auto Driver Sevalo’ scheme at the Makineni Basavapunnaiah Stadium in Ajit Singh Nagar, Vijayawada. He was joined by Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan, Human Resource Development Minister Nara Lokesh, and Andhra Pradesh BJP chief P.V.N. Madhav.

To mark the occasion, Naidu, Kalyan, Lokesh, and Madhav traveled 14 kilometers from Undavalli to the stadium by auto-rickshaw, symbolically highlighting their commitment to the welfare of drivers.

₹436 Crore Deposited Directly into Beneficiaries’ Accounts

Under the newly launched scheme, the government has transferred ₹436 crore directly into the bank accounts of 2.9 lakh (290,669) beneficiaries. Naidu said the initiative demonstrates the government’s dedication to the welfare of the working class.

“The welfare of auto drivers is our top priority. Through the Auto Driver Sevalo program, we are ensuring financial security and dignity for them. Every eligible driver has received the benefit directly into their bank account,” the Chief Minister said.

He further emphasized that the coalition government has already improved the state’s road network, making 23,000 kilometers of roads pothole-free, ensuring safer conditions for drivers and commuters alike.

Simplifying Fines and Promoting Electric Autos

Naidu also promised to revoke unnecessary government orders related to heavy fines and to simplify the challan (penalty) system. The government, he said, plans to support drivers in converting their vehicles to electric autos, promoting sustainability while reducing fuel costs.

“Our Government Is for the Poor”: Naidu

Highlighting his government’s inclusive approach, Naidu described the coalition as one truly committed to the welfare of the poor. “In the past 15 months, we have provided good governance and improved the lives of the underprivileged,” he said.

The Chief Minister reaffirmed that the government has successfully fulfilled its ‘Super 6’ promises, which include initiatives like:

• Stree Shakti Yojana, providing free bus travel for women across the state.
• Universal Health Policy, offering free health insurance of up to ₹25 lakh per family.

“These programs reflect our commitment to social equity and empowerment,” he said, noting that such policies have brought relief and dignity to thousands of families.

Criticism of Previous Government

Naidu took a sharp dig at the previous YSRCP government, accusing it of “collapsing governance and ruining welfare systems.” He recalled how initiatives like Anna Canteens, which served meals to the poor, had been shut down.

“The YSRCP pushed the state into fear and financial ruin, looted public funds meant for the poor, and proved unfit for governance,” he said. “We will never allow such destructive forces to return. We don’t want this ‘Vaikunthapali’ style of administration.”

A Call for Stable Governance

Drawing parallels with other successful governments, Naidu cited Gujarat’s 25 years of stable rule and the NDA’s 15 years at the Centre as examples of consistency and progress. “Real development is possible only under a double-engine government—one that works in harmony at both the Centre and the state,” he said.

Recalling the 2024 elections, Naidu termed them “historic,” stating, “I have never seen such an election in my life. We achieved a 94% strike rate, and with continued welfare initiatives, this rate will rise even higher.”

A Vision for Empowerment

With the launch of the Auto Driver Welfare Board and the upcoming digital platform, Naidu aims to empower auto drivers through technology, transparency, and welfare-based governance. The initiative not only secures livelihoods but also reflects the government’s broader goal of inclusive development, where every section of society—especially the working class—benefits from progress.

“The future of our state lies in the hands of hardworking citizens. By empowering them, we ensure the prosperity of Andhra Pradesh,” Naidu concluded.