Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu reaffirmed the TDP-led NDA government’s unwavering dedication to women’s empowerment during a speech in the state Assembly on Wednesday. Leading the coalition of TDP, BJP, and Janasena, Naidu emphasized that despite women constituting 50% of the population, gender equity remains a distant goal globally. “Our government is committed to empowering women—today, tomorrow, and always,” he declared, underscoring that every NDA initiative is designed with this priority in mind.

Naidu called for open discussions on population dynamics, particularly the declining Total Fertility Rate (TFR) in the state. To address this, he announced an innovative policy extending maternity leave benefits for every child a woman bears, aiming to encourage higher birth rates. Alongside this, he highlighted the government’s focus on menstrual hygiene, revealing plans to establish counselling centres and install sanitary pad vending machines and incinerators across Andhra Pradesh.

Expressing alarm over the state’s 70% caesarean section (C-section) rate—the highest in India—Naidu criticized the trend as a product of vested interests marketing “painless delivery packages.” He warned of the long-term health risks for women and urged a shift toward natural childbirth. To tackle this, he directed Health Minister Satya Kumar Yadav to prioritize awareness and intervention. In a significant move, Naidu announced a collaboration with the UK-based Royal College of Midwives to train healthcare professionals in Andhra Pradesh, enhancing midwifery expertise and promoting safer delivery practices.

The Royal College of Midwives, a renowned professional body for midwives and maternity support workers, will lend its expertise to this initiative. Naidu’s address reflects a holistic approach, blending women’s health, empowerment, and demographic goals, positioning Andhra Pradesh as a leader in progressive governance under the NDA’s stewardship.