YSR Kadapa Emerges as a Model District Under Aspirational Districts Programme: Dr. Jitendra Singh

Dr. Singh emphasized the importance of raising awareness about Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY, which now provides health coverage to all senior citizens aged 70 years and above.

Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh, responsible for Science and Technology, Earth Sciences, and the PMO, conducted a detailed review of developmental initiatives in Andhra Pradesh's YSR Kadapa district as part of the Aspirational Districts Programme (ADP). His visit highlighted the district's outstanding progress in key areas, positioning it as a model for other aspirational districts across India.

Dr Singh praised the district for its exceptional strides in socio-economic development, particularly in health, education, agriculture, and infrastructure, attributing the success to targeted interventions, effective governance, and community engagement.

Health Achievements: A Model for Maternal and Child Welfare

YSR Kadapa has set benchmarks in healthcare, achieving a 100% rate of institutional deliveries and reducing Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM) in children under six to a mere 0.6%. With 99% of children aged 9–11 months fully immunized and 96% of pregnant women receiving antenatal care in their first trimester, the district’s implementation of flagship programs like POSHAN Abhiyaan and Ayushman Bharat has been exemplary.

Dr. Singh emphasized the importance of raising awareness about Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY, which now provides health coverage to all senior citizens aged 70 years and above.

Educational Excellence: Foundations for Future Growth

YSR Kadapa’s education sector has made remarkable progress, with all schools equipped with functional drinking water, electricity, and toilet facilities. The district has achieved a 98% transition rate from primary to secondary education, and female literacy has risen to 72.3%. The PM SHRI scheme has played a crucial role in creating modern learning environments, fostering holistic student development.

Agricultural Transformation: Modern Practices Drive Growth

Agriculture in YSR Kadapa has thrived through technological adoption, with micro-irrigation now covering 65.17% of the net sown area, up from 41.59% in 2018. The distribution of 6,950 soil health cards has empowered farmers with crucial knowledge, while artificial insemination and animal vaccination programs have boosted productivity in allied sectors. Under PM-KISAN, ₹126 crores have been disbursed to 2,10,481 farmers.

Infrastructure Development: A Foundation for Sustainable Growth

The district’s infrastructure achievements include 95% of households having access to safe drinking water under the Jal Jeevan Mission and 100% connectivity through all-weather roads. Housing projects under PMAY have delivered pucca homes to over 96,000 families with investments exceeding ₹1,159 crores.

Financial Inclusion and Skill Development

YSR Kadapa has opened 2.59 lakh Jan Dhan accounts, with 94.7% linked to Aadhaar. Mudra loans worth ₹825 crores have supported small business owners, while 17,500 youth have been certified under PM Kaushal Vikas Yojana, enhancing employability and fueling economic growth.

Replicating Success Across India

Dr. Singh directed the district administration to conduct workshops to raise awareness about Central Government schemes, such as PM Suryaghar, PM Kisan, and PM Vishwakarma, ensuring their benefits reach rural and remote areas.

He stressed the importance of replicating YSR Kadapa’s best practices across other aspirational districts to achieve balanced development nationwide. Collaboration among stakeholders, public representatives, and local communities will be pivotal in maximizing the benefits of government initiatives.

A Vision for Holistic Growth

Dr. Singh assured continued support from the central government to sustain YSR Kadapa’s progress. The district’s transformation serves as a testament to the power of policy innovation and grassroots implementation, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of holistic and inclusive growth.