BJP intensifies tribal outreach in Andhra Pradesh ahead of local body polls
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has announced plans to expand its presence among tribal communities in Andhra Pradesh, with a focus on strengthening its Scheduled Tribes (ST) Morcha and increasing activities in tribal areas ahead of the upcoming local body elections.
Speaking at the State Executive Committee meeting of the BJP ST Morcha held at the party's state office in Vijayawada on Friday, BJP State vice-president Garapati Sitaramanjaneya Chowdary said the party would work to reach every tribal household, including those in hilly and remote regions.
He stated that the BJP would coordinate with its NDA partners and intensify organisational efforts in tribal belts. The party aims to strengthen its network from the village level while ensuring that government welfare programmes reach eligible beneficiaries.
Mr. Chowdary urged party workers to create greater awareness about Central government schemes and to identify the issues faced by tribal communities so that appropriate solutions could be developed.
He cited several Union government initiatives, including the PM JANMAN scheme, for which he said ₹24,000 crore had been allocated for tribal development nationwide. According to him, multiple projects under this scheme are already underway in Andhra Pradesh.
The leader also mentioned that the Centre is strengthening Eklavya Model Residential Schools to improve educational access for tribal students. He noted that more than 10,000 students are currently enrolled in these institutions in the state, with scholarships extended to thousands of tribal students.
Additionally, he referred to the Stand-Up India scheme, which he said helps tribal entrepreneurs obtain loans ranging from ₹10 lakh to ₹1 crore, promoting self-employment and economic development.
ST Morcha State president Pangi Rajarao, who presided over the meeting, emphasised the need for greater efforts to ensure tribal communities fully utilise central welfare schemes.
The meeting was attended by several BJP leaders and office-bearers, and featured cultural programmes showcasing traditional tribal art forms and folk performances.
