Big Diwali Gift for the Poor in Andhra Pradesh: Free Gas Cylinders from October 31 under Deepam Scheme
The Andhra Pradesh government is set to distribute free gas cylinders under the Deepam Scheme starting October 31, as a special Diwali gift to the state's economically disadvantaged. This initiative will add an additional financial burden of ₹2,648 crore to the state’s budget.
In a significant move to support low-income families, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu instructed officials to ensure the advance availability of cylinders for the Deepam Scheme. Starting October 24, eligible recipients will be able to book cylinders, with distribution beginning on October 31. Under this scheme, eligible women can receive up to three free gas cylinders per year.
Additional Cost of ₹2,648 Crore
The implementation of the scheme will cost the state an additional ₹2,648 crore, with a total projected cost of ₹13,423 crore over the next five years.
The ‘Super Six’ Initiatives
The Deepam Scheme is part of the government’s “Super Six” initiatives, which also include a monthly pension of ₹1,500 for women aged 19 to 59, 20 lakh job opportunities or a monthly unemployment allowance of ₹3,000 for youth, free bus travel for women, an annual ₹15,000 scholarship for school children, and ₹20,000 financial support for every farmer.