Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu has announced a series of education, welfare, and digital connectivity initiatives aimed at empowering tribal students in the state’s Agency areas. Speaking at the State-level Mega Parent-Teacher Meeting (PTM 4.0) held in Rampachodavaram, Naidu said strengthening school education would play a crucial role in bringing social transformation among tribal communities. The event marked his first visit to the newly formed Polavaram district.

Highlighting the importance of quality education, the Chief Minister said improvements in school infrastructure and education reforms had contributed to a significant increase in admissions in government schools over the past two years. During his interaction with mothers at the event, Naidu reviewed the implementation of the Talliki Vandanam financial assistance scheme and assured that every eligible child would receive the benefit without restrictions.

Human Resources Development Minister Nara Lokesh said more than 1.10 lakh students had shifted from private institutions to government schools during the current academic year, reflecting growing confidence in public education. He added that several government schools had reached full capacity due to increased demand. Lokesh also pointed out that official advertisements celebrating SSC and Intermediate examination results featured student toppers instead of photographs of political leaders.

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The Chief Minister announced that government schools in Agency areas lacking proper infrastructure would receive dedicated buildings and major improvements by next year. Under the LEAP (Learning Excellence and Achievement Program) framework, the state government is introducing measures such as the “One Class, One Teacher” model in nearly 10,000 schools, active learning tools, regional nutrition menus under the Dokka Seethamma Midday Meal Scheme, and modern smart kitchens.

Naidu described tribal students as “hidden gems” and announced plans to introduce specialised coaching for competitive examinations, artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and digital skills in SC and ST residential schools. He also announced a 10% increase in hostel diet allowances and directed officials to provide Wi-Fi facilities and smartphones to every tribal household within three months to reduce the digital divide.

The Chief Minister further highlighted government initiatives including the recruitment of more than 15,000 teachers through the Mega DSC and the upcoming launch of the Sanjeevani digital health project. He said the government was examining legal options to safeguard local tribal employment reservations. During the visit, Naidu and Lokesh also reviewed students’ “Green Passports,” a QR-code-based system used to track tree saplings as part of environmental awareness efforts.

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