Lokesh challenges Jagan for open debate on welfare

The Capital News
Vijayawada: April 10 Telugu Desam Party’s national general secretary Nara Lokesh has thrown down the gauntlet to the ruling YSR Congress Party, calling for an open debate on welfare initiatives and asserting that the TDP has delivered more extensive welfare programs for the people of Andhra Pradesh. He also announced the party’s intention to reintroduce the old fees reimbursement scheme for higher education students if the TDP secures victory in the ongoing general elections.
Speaking during an election campaign at Chinakakani in Mangalagiri constituency on Wednesday, Lokesh criticised the incumbent YSRCP government led by YS Jagan Mohan Reddy for discontinuing welfare schemes initiated by the previous TDP administration. He particularly highlighted the increase in electricity charges and the alleged failure to implement crucial fees reimbursement schemes for students.
Lokesh strongly condemned the YSRCP government’s decision to repeal the fees reimbursement scheme introduced during the previous TDP regime. He pointed out the perceived shortcomings of the YSRCP government’s Vidya Deevena and Vasathi Deevena schemes, arguing that these initiatives had not effectively supported students in meeting their higher education fees.
The TDP leader emphasised the challenges faced by students and their families in meeting financial obligations due to the alleged deficiencies in the current administration’s policies, especially affecting those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds pursuing professional courses.
Additionally, Lokesh noted that many students were unable to obtain their certificates from educational institutions due to outstanding fee payments, promising that a TDP government would ensure the issuance of certificates to affected students.
Highlighting another issue, Lokesh criticised the YSRCP government for its failure to provide adequate financial assistance to students aspiring for higher education abroad. In contrast, he praised the TDP government’s track record of supporting such students financially, noting their subsequent successes in prestigious global companies